An 8-month-old baby is drooling excessively.
Sep 17, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ma Yan
Introduction
In general, excessive drooling in an eight-month-old infant may be related to teething, indigestion, spleen and stomach weakness, oral ulcers, or herpetic gingivostomatitis. It is recommended that the patient receive appropriate treatment as directed by a physician. Eight-month-old infants are typically in the teething stage, during which gum itching can stimulate increased saliva production in the mouth. The excess saliva may not be swallowed promptly, leading to noticeable drooling.
Generally, excessive drooling in an eight-month-old infant may be related to teething, indigestion, spleen and stomach deficiency, oral ulcers, or herpetic gingivostomatitis. It is recommended that the infant receive appropriate treatment under medical guidance. Specific analysis is as follows:
1. Teething Stage
An eight-month-old infant is typically in the teething stage. During this period, teething can cause gum irritation and itching, leading to increased saliva production. The excess saliva may not be swallowed in time, resulting in drooling. This is a normal physiological phenomenon and does not require special treatment. However, drool should be wiped away promptly to prevent skin irritation or eczema.
2. Indigestion
Drooling may occur due to indigestion caused by consuming a variety of foods or excessive amounts of hard-to-digest foods. Under a doctor's guidance, probiotics such as Bifidobacterium Triformis Live Capsules or Lactasin tablets may be taken orally to promote gastrointestinal motility and relieve symptoms.
3. Spleen and Stomach Deficiency
If an eight-month-old infant frequently overeats, it may lead to spleen and stomach deficiency, causing symptoms such as increased drooling and bad breath. Under medical supervision, medications such as Xingpi Yang'er Granules or Infant Jianpi Granules may be used to support improvement. Caregivers should ensure reasonable feeding practices and avoid overfeeding.
4. Oral Ulcers
Oral ulcers caused by viral or bacterial infections can stimulate excessive saliva secretion. Under a doctor’s direction, medications such as Metronidazole Buccal Tablets or Watermelon Frost Throat Lozenges may be used to alleviate symptoms.
5. Herpetic Gingivostomatitis
Herpetic gingivostomatitis is an infectious disease of the oral mucosa caused by the herpes simplex virus. It leads to small blisters on the oral mucosa and can result in drooling. As directed by a physician, antiviral topical treatments such as Acyclovir Cream or Penciclovir Cream may be applied.
If the infant develops any discomfort or persistent symptoms, prompt medical evaluation at a hospital is recommended to avoid delays in diagnosis and treatment.
