aww! poor baby. teething is such a rough time of life. you're right to be concerned if your toddler is in so much pain that he's not getting enough fluids or food. in general fluids are more important than food so try to make sure he at least gets plenty of water -- even if it's mixed with kool aid or crystal light or some other flavoring to make it taste better to him. here are some other things you can try to soothe a teething toddler: give him a cold wet washcloth to chew on. let him eat popsicles. give a mild pain reliever like acetaminophen (tylenol) or ibuprofen (advil) -- but never give real aspirin to children under the age of 20. try using a blender to liquefy his favorite meal. give him ice cream. (normally we advise against children eating too many sweets but in this case ice cream will provide him with some protein and also will serve to numb his gums a little. ) use a topical medication to numb his gums (such as ora-jel) before mealtime. offer a liquid meal replacement like pediasure. it's distressing for parents to see their children in such discomfort from teething but remember it's temporary. it's normal for children to stop eating and drinking somewhat during this stage. as long as you take steps to keep your son hydrated he'll probably come through this none the worse for wear. wishing you (and your son) well!
what can you do for a 22 month old who crys 70% of the time due to teething? . we give him pedicare as soon as we get home hoping that will sooth him enough for him to want to eat soft foods - mashed potatoes mac & cheese soft salisbury steak which is his favorite. he only ate half of that last night. he did not have a fever but was so irritable. how can we help him?