Drooling is a normal phenomenon for babies, but why do doctors say that drooling is a sign of illness? How can parents distinguish? Let's take a look together!
Reasons for Baby Drooling
Generally, newborn babies do not drool much because they only consume breast milk or formula, which does not stimulate saliva production. However, as babies start to eat starchy foods like rice cereal at around 4 months old, the stimulation of amylase secretion increases saliva production. Additionally, some babies may suck their fingers, further stimulating saliva production. Since the baby's mouth is small and shallow, and their swallowing function is not fully developed, they may not swallow the saliva, resulting in excessive drooling.
Teething can also stimulate saliva production, leading to increased drooling. As the baby learns to swallow, the drooling will naturally decrease.
Is Baby Drooling Normal?
As the baby grows older and learns to actively swallow saliva, this phenomenon will gradually improve or disappear. However, the time it takes for improvement or disappearance varies from person to person. Some babies may stop drooling as early as 8-9 months old, while others may continue to drool until around 2 years old.
However, if the baby continues to drool after the normal period, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly.
Warning Signs for Baby Drooling
1. Blisters at the corners of the mouth
Saliva contains digestive enzymes and other substances that can irritate the skin. Children who drool frequently may experience redness, and even rash and peeling on the skin around the chin. If blisters appear at the corners of the mouth while drooling, the baby may have oral ulcers or stomatitis.
2. Fever and runny nose
If the baby has a fever and runny nose along with drooling, it may be due to pharyngitis or tonsillitis.
3. Mouth ulcers
If the baby drools and has mouth ulcers, it may be due to chickenpox or hand, foot, and mouth disease.
4. Abnormal behavior
If the baby drools and exhibits abnormal behavior such as unconsciousness, parents need to be extra vigilant. The baby may be suffering from neurological disorders such as mental retardation, facial nerve paralysis, or sequelae of meningitis.
