Yes, teething can sometimes cause head shaking in babies.
While not a direct symptom in every teething baby, head shaking can occur as a response to the discomfort and pain associated with teething. Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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Pain Referral: The pain from erupting teeth can sometimes radiate or be referred to the ear canal. This can lead a baby to tug at their ears or shake their head in an attempt to relieve the perceived discomfort. As the reference states, it may appear as if they are "shaking their head from side to side as if they are gesturing no no no".
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Self-Soothing Behavior: Teething babies often exhibit various self-soothing behaviors to cope with the pain. Head shaking could be one such behavior, similar to chewing on objects or rubbing their gums.
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Other Possible Causes: It's crucial to remember that head shaking can also be a symptom of other conditions, such as an ear infection. If the head shaking is persistent or accompanied by other symptoms like fever, irritability, or drainage from the ear, it's important to consult a pediatrician to rule out other potential medical issues.
In summary, while teething can contribute to head shaking as a response to pain or as a self-soothing mechanism, it's essential to consider other possible causes and seek professional medical advice if you have concerns.
