Your baby seems to have oral herpes or gingivostomatitis which is an infection of the gums and mouth. It is caused by the herpes simplex virus. The first episode is usually the worst, but the good news is that it won't necessarily be frequently so painful.
Here are some home remedies you can use on your baby after consulting your pediatrician:
- Try applying aloe vera gel on the sores. This is safest to try.
- Tea tree oil for mouth sores.
- Cream made from Melissa, an herb from the mint family.
Be careful about dehyradation as your baby may not want to drink or eat as swallowing causes pain. Give your baby enough fluids. Plenty of breast milk or formula should be given. A baby who is 4 month old or above can be given diluted apple juice and water. If your baby hasn’t urinated for over 6 hours nor taken any liquid, then there are high chances of dehydration. In this situation, visit your doctor. If your baby eats solid foods, then strain the baby food well, mashed potatoes, yogurt, apple sauce and other soft, bland foods which can be consumed easily without chewing should be given. Do not force feed your baby to eat solids especially if their mouth hurts.
You should visit your pediatrician if your baby has a high fever and if baby’s pain doesn’t subside.
answered by P P