Teething and How to cope

So for almost a week now, my five month old son has been teething. This is my first child so I had no idea what the signs were or how to help him. All I could tell was that his mood was changing and something wasn't right.
      Here are some signs that alerted me, although every baby is different, knowing your baby comes naturally so trust your gut.
   first, my son loves nap time. I am proud to say we have that in common. I usually try to nap while he does or get a bite to eat, or do a few chores. once I realized he hadn't taken a nap all day, (he usually has three) I knew something was up.
   next, I noticed his body temp and he was burning up.
   thirdly, my son  loves  meal time so when he refused the bottle, my lightbulb went off.
   lastly, his cry was different. I know, I know, you are probably wondering what I mean. I listen to every sound he makes and can understand his needs based on them. our babies have a way of communicating with us even if they cant say full words yet, so its vital to take note of every giggle and moan. his cry was different, normally he cries and there is a certain rhythm to it. eventually he either sucks his thumb, takes his binky, or accepts being held. but this time he kept wailing off and nothing helped. changed diaper, check, bottle, check, his fav toy, check. nothing soothed his cry so instantly I decided to take action. one more difference was his cry sounded as if he was congested and having trouble breathing.
    so on to the er we go. yes I know you don't go to the er for a teething baby but at the time I had no idea what was going on. but I am glad we went to the er and didn't just let him sleep it off. turns out he had an upper respiratory  infection and fever. the doctor was able to explain the cause and how to care for him.
   So here is what to do if your baby is teething or sick
       for starters, understand your baby will get sick and its ok. this helps to build their immune systems.
      your baby is stronger than you think but they feed off of your energy. remember to stay calm and happy because your baby will benefit. your baby is looking to you for support. also stay calm because it is not good for you to freak out. you are in control and you can do this.
     be patient with yourself, your baby, and the process. it is easy to get frustrated with a crying a baby who wont calm down but just wait for the baby Tylenol to kick in. in the meantime hold your baby, shower them with kisses, and help them through the pain.
     give them baby Tylenol, baby orajel, and pedialyte instead of their usual bottle,( the baby will throw it up if it has a fever). just follow the instructions on each package and wait for the magic to kick in.
      If your baby has a fever or sounds congested give them saline drops in their nose (one drop per nostril is fine) and use syringe to suck out any mucus. do this in the morning when they wake, before bed, and before feedings.( follow instructions on package).
      your baby should be fine in a few days, however if things get worse seek medical attention.
     if baby is still teething but fever is gone resume regular feedings, give baby Tylenol as needed in less doses and use baby orajel to soothe. I currently still give him pedialyte since he likes it and thinks it keeps him hydrated.

                                hope this helps, with these tips you'll be able to cope and have a happy baby
                                                 while teething   

- xoxo candidly renee