Should Medication Be Used for Teething Infants?
When teething toys and remedies are not enough to ease an infant’s discomfort, some pediatricians may recommend the use of safe medications. However, it is important to note that many doctors advise against giving medication for pain to infants under six months old. In addition, healthcare professionals express concerns about relying on these medications too frequently. It is crucial to remember that excessive pain and irritability in infants may be due to other factors besides teething and should prompt a visit to a pediatrician.
Complications Linked to Teething: Myth or Reality?
In the past, infants faced significantly higher mortality rates compared to the present day, and teething was mistakenly believed to be a cause of infant death. However, teething merely results in discomfort and does not pose a life-threatening risk. Instead, the complications associated with teething were often caused by the remedies used to alleviate the discomfort. Historical teething treatments often contained hazardous substances such as lead and mercury, which could have serious consequences for infants. Practices like lancing the gums also increased the risk of infection. If you have concerns regarding your child’s teething, it is essential to consult a pediatrician before attempting any potentially unsafe home remedies.