My Child Is CRYING!!!

Updated on April 13, 2008
T.S. asks from Salt Lake City, UT
46 answers

My 8 month old has been crying for two days straight. I know she is teething but it can't just be that. She won't let me set her down for a second. some of the time she just cries right there in my arms for no reason at all unless we're walking around and my back is killing me! I can't get anything done. I try to wheel her around with me in her high chair but the second she sees my attention on something else, she flips. I've tried just letting her cry but I can't take it. I know shes not hungry I feed her well. plus she has a certain cry when shes hungry. I need help! I don't know what to do! She isn't sick. Her poo is normal. i don't know!

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D.P.

answers from Denver on

If you take her in to the doc and it is not an ear infection and she is teething than what she is doing is very normal. You can also try taking a baby washcloth and wetting it and then freezing it and giving it to her to chew on. All 5 of my kids loved this as they didn't like any of the teething rings or toys that you freeze and it really does provide pain relief without giving tylenol or other pain medication. Good luck

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J.L.

answers from Pocatello on

Take her to the doctor today. This is not normal behavior and it may be indicative that there may be something serious going on. It may be nothing, but it's definitely better to err on the side of caution on this one.

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D.H.

answers from Denver on

She may just be having a bout of separation anxiety. Do you have a sling or any other carrier? My boy did the same thing and I just toted him around in the backpack and it eventually subsided. Good luck mamma!

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L.S.

answers from Boise on

Do you think something else is going on? If you feel that it not just a teething issue take her in and ask the doctor they really don't mind and that is why we pay them! She may have an ear infection, cold, sore throat these can be a by product of teething.

If she wants you to hold her well why not? You are her comfort line in this world. When any of my kids have acted this I just give up on doing anyhing else. It is frustrating and you house will look like a house with a sick baby.

Your husband can help out when he gets home by holding her if she will let him so you can have a break. If she won't let him hold her than at least he is home and can pick up, do laundry, wash dishes, and make a meal. Being a stay at home mom can be a 24/7 job but that doesn't mean he doesn't need to pitch in and help when he gets home. He works 8 hours and gets lunch and break options you don't.

It seems that your biggest concern is frustration and just not knowing what else to do. By giving her comfort and attention now when she needs it she will know that she can rely on you when she needs you the most. I know I have been there with my three boys and I definately feel for you! Just remember that it will end. Keep breathing deeply when you get really irritated. Think how funny you would look on video tape when you are trying to pee, hold a crying baby, and
reach the toilet paper! Just enjoy tv time with no end, book reading, and rocking your baby while she is still young enough to let you hold her and have her all to yourself. It doesn't last for many years and than we miss it and want to go back if you can believe it!

If you are frustrated by staying at home go ahead and go back to school! You can take elementary education classes online to earn your degree and become a teacher! Why not start writing books during naptime or take an hour or two for yourself when your husband gets home to rejuvanite yourself!

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C.C.

answers from Salt Lake City on

As a mom you have natural instincts with your child. If you feel there is something wrong, odds are there is. I agree with the other mom's it could be an ear infection. I've had to learn to trust my instincts--there have been several times I just knew something was wrong and taken her in to the doctor. Twice it was an ear infection, the other time she wasn't able to breathe well, even though she didn't have typical stryder symptoms (the wheezing) but we took her to the ER and they got her breathing well again with a steriod shot--what I am saying is trust your gut, it won't lead you wrong, even if it is just peace of mind you end up with at the Doctors...I've had that a few times too. Also when you baby is crying a lot see if you can get away for a couple of hours for a destressor for you--even just 15 minutes if that is all you can arrange with your spouse. Taking care of mom helps with baby too. Good luck!

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J.K.

answers from Great Falls on

I feel for you. I don't know what can be wrong, but I know you are doing the right thing by just trying to comfort her. I know it may sound silly, but does she have a binki? That sucking is so important, and it may be her teeth. Poor little thing. You sound like a very loving mommy. On a side note I read your notes about "you" and you sound like such a loving person. I know you can do what ever you want. One thing that has helped me achieve a few of my passions is just to let go of the fear as my focus and replace it with the thought of love. I used to let my fear of something hold me back because it is powerful. Now I ask my self when I am making decisions (esp. with my son and career) "Am I making this decision out of fear or love?" It is powerful! I hope that it helps you on your own personal journey. J.

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A.H.

answers from Denver on

It could be an ear infection, my little one screamed the same way when he had one. Call the doctor!

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V.B.

answers from Denver on

Have you tried wearing her in a sling or pouch? When my son was teething, I would just pop him in the sling, and he was happy. And if he still fussed, at least I could still get stuff done, because my hands were free, and he usually would fall asleep after awhile. If you don't know about the different kind of carriers out there, go to Thebabywearer.com. They really helped me figure out what kind of carrier I needed, and how to use it! Good luck, and hang in there!

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S.J.

answers from Boise on

She might have an ear infection, my daughter had an ear infection and the only symptom she had was that she was that she cried alot.

Good luck!

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T.C.

answers from Colorado Springs on

I know this isn't what you want to hear, but when a your baby is teething there isn't much you can do but try to just get through the day one at a time. I found that out with my son who is now 17 mo. old and almost done with his 12th tooth. He had SUCH a hard time cutting teeth I didn't know how I was going to get through all the clingyness and crying/whining...it was hard! But I've found that IB Prof works SO MUCH better than baby Tylenol. Tylenol didn't work at all for him. I didn't really want to give him medicine at all, but found that it was better for both of us when I did. It really eases the pain and also helps them to sleep better so that when they are awake they're not so crabby. My son also loved ice chips (just small enough that he could suck on them). That seemed to calm him a lot. Just a few ideas--you WILL get through this and then have a better idea of what your baby needs for the next time. Good luck. :)

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C.N.

answers from Salt Lake City on

Have you had your ears checked for infection?

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T.T.

answers from Salt Lake City on

I would take her in and make sure she does not have an ear infection. You might also want to talk to the
Dr. about reflux. My baby cried non-stop with both of those.

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H.M.

answers from Provo on

I know you've been hearing a lot of this, but I would take her to her doctor today. My daughter was getting ear infections and she didn't even start out with a cold. No runny nose...coughing...or anything. Have her ears and throat checked out to make sure she's not in any pain.

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A.P.

answers from Pocatello on

Rule out illness, such as ear infections, teething; consider pain medication if you think she actually hurts. Do you own a baby sling? It's a wonderful contraption for carrying your baby with you, even nursing, and your hands are free to get things done. My youngest is 2 and I still use my sling on days when he is fussy, grumpy, or not feeling well. babyholder.com is a great site to check out.

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A.L.

answers from Salt Lake City on

I have 10 month old twins and was freaking out about the exact same this last weekend. My normally happy 10 month old was all of a sudden crying non stop unless she was sleeping or I was holding her. It was exhausting! When I looked in her mouth there were two nubs...teething. So finally I got some oragel and that seemed to help a lot! Other than that we just went outside a lot and for walks because that seemed to calm or distract her. I would say that if you don't suspect illness (high fever would indicate an infection) then it probably just is teething and it should pass in a day or two! I'm sorry...I know it is miserable! Go for a walk and take a break. Call a friend or family or if you are married have your hubby give you a break so you don't go crazy!

Forgot to mention that I had her checked out for infection because she had a fever a few days before the screeming stopped and she was fine.

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K.C.

answers from Denver on

I'd recommend checking for an ear infection. Sometimes there are no symptoms except for crying. There's also a possibility of food allergies if she started something new this week. Good luck. My baby did this for a week when she was 10 months, and I still don't know if it was the molars or the ear infection she did have!

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M.C.

answers from Salt Lake City on

Did you recently get a vaccination done? I have read that vaccinations can do a lot of different things to our babies. One of which could be crying for no reason. Even if you didn't just get a vaccination done--it could be from one you did overall. If you have not vaccinated your child perhaps she just needs you right now. I would give her what attention you can--before too long she won't want you around as much. Good luck!!

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E.B.

answers from Provo on

Your first child can be tough. If she has been crying for that long and nothing is helping, my first thought is to take her straight to the doctor. They can detect things that we wouldn't know about. The most important thing for You is to get some time out. If she is still crying, call a neighbor or family member and drop her off. Just let them know why you need to get out for an hour or two. My only other advice is to trust your instincts, they can tell you more than you think. Gook luck.

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A.P.

answers from Pocatello on

sounds like a possible ear infection, I would take her to the doctor ASAP! The exact thing happened to a little boy I was babysitting. They can be very painful for them!

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A.T.

answers from Denver on

I'm just going to echo the other moms-- totally sounds like an ear infection. I've been there with my daughter- she's 10 mos now. At first I thought it was teething also, but when I took her in, she had a raging ear infection. Good luck!

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S.M.

answers from Denver on

When my daughters were teething they were inconsolable. We would give them ice chips in a little cup or cold pickles. The would chew and suck on the pickles like little happy maniacs. I know it is not much but is worked for us. Good luck!!!

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C.H.

answers from Great Falls on

T., call your pediatrician right away. Babies don't cry for no reason so chances are she may be sick only not very symptomatic which is why you are not picking up on it. I would urge you to not delay. Good luck!

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T.H.

answers from Denver on

I have two boys ages 12 and 7. I can tell you this, yes babies can cry severly over teething. It is painful for them. You can try the gum rubs(orajel) but I always gave my kids tylenol for the pain. Also, have you tried gas drops because babies can cry over gas too. Think about how you feel when it happens to you. The difference is that your baby can't tell you what the problem is. Good Luck, and if it doesn't stop I would call the Dr.

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S.S.

answers from Salt Lake City on

It sounds like ear infections is covered but here is another thought. Babies sometimes cry to release emotional stress. Has anything changed in your home. Did Dad go on a trip? Someone sick? Is there anything that has changed so that her sense of security is threatened. I recently went back to work and my four year old is more moody and clingy. Just something to think about. Remember always trust your instincts.

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M.H.

answers from Denver on

Definitely take her to the doctor to get checked. If nothing is physically wrong, she may just be going through an insecure time and want to be held. I recommend the ergo baby carrier. I have tried slings, wraps, and various carriers and this one is actually comfortable. I use it with my almost two year old, and it is still comfortable. It can be worn with baby on front, hip or back--so there are lots of options.

Good luck. Hang in there--it is hard to give them love when you see all the things that need doing, but housework will always be there. It sounds like you are doing great giving your daughter your time and attention.

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A.H.

answers from Denver on

My little girl is 8 months old as well. I would recommend getting her ears checked for an infection if you haven't already. Symptoms are similar to teething - she doesn't need to have a fever or be congested (as I learned) to have an ear infection. Good luck!

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A.H.

answers from Denver on

have you considered an ear infection? there isn't always outward signs of illness....

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T.M.

answers from Denver on

I would call your pediatrician ASAP. There could be something really bothering her, something that you can't see. It could be something internally like an ear infection.

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J.H.

answers from Casper on

Like a lot of moms have suggested, get her checked for an ear infection. That said, if it is just teething, I highly recommend Hyland's teething tablets. They work wonders and are all natural so you don't need to worry about drugging up your little one :)

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R.P.

answers from Casper on

And why haven't you taken your kid to the doctor yet???? 2 days is a long time to put your kid through. It may be pain! Please for your sake and your child's sake, GO TO THE DOCTOR.

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J.S.

answers from Casper on

My little guy (10 months) has done the exact same things on and off for the last 3 months. It is major seperation anxiety on our end. On a good day, even if he is with his daddy or grandparents (we live with the inlaws currently so he see's them everyday), if I walk through the room and I don't go pick him up or play with him he will freak out and start to scream and cry and will either do this while staring at me and by crawling after me. On the bad days I carry him around in a Mei Tai. Other slings hurt my back but the mei tai puts the weight at my hips so my body can support the weight better and my back doesn't hurt at all. He isn't light either. He is 21 lbs. It's a stage they go through. Some worse than others. My mother said I was the exact same way. I hope it gets better for you mama. I would encourage you to get a mei tai (babyhawk makes a good one or some of the mama's on diaperswappers.com make them and they are less expensive which is the route I took) or an ergo. But the mei tai is more confortable, especially around the house. My lo just snuggles up and is fine when I have him in the mei tai. Try not to let her cry to much during the day as she needs to be comforted and held close. I found on days I tried to let him just cry it was a nightmare. On the days I just put him in the mei tai and realized that I just wasn't going to get as much done that day the day went much smoother. They are only this little for a short time so I try to remember that on the days I can't get anything done. Btw my little one would cry just with me holding him but the mei tai puts him tummy to tummy and supports him better than just my arms. Hope this helps a little. If only to let you know your not alone. Hugs Mama.

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T.B.

answers from Colorado Springs on

Have her checked for ear infections. My kids NEVER had fevers or pulled their ears. (All the typical signs of ear infections). But had several. The only thing that triggered the idea was a sudden change in behavior.

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K.A.

answers from Salt Lake City on

I bet she has an ear infection. Whenever my kids are teething often they get a little ear infection often cause by the drainage from the teething. Hope that helps and that your life gets back to normal...whatever that is with young children :)

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B.P.

answers from Denver on

I am with the others take her to the Dr. I had the same problem with my son. His ear drum ruptured on the way to the Dr. talk about feeling like the worst mom in the world, and I only waited till morning!!! Good luck.

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H.W.

answers from Boise on

Take her to the doctor immediately!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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M.B.

answers from Salt Lake City on

Hang in there. I know it can be frustrating with a crying child, but hopefully you and your doctor can figure out what's bugging her. Two days of straight crying definitely seems a lot to me. Have her checked out. You are being a great Mom by giving her lots of TLC and keeping her close. Do you have a sling? Carrying your baby in a sling when they don't feel good can allow your child the comfort and closeness they need but at the same time it allows you two hands free to get a few things done. It also takes a lot of pressure off your back. I recommend a Maya Wrap (www.mayawrap.com) My 15 mo. old still goes in the sling when she's not feeling well and just wants to be snuggled. You sound like a wonderful caring mom-- hand in there!

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F.S.

answers from Provo on

Have you tried seeing if she has acid reflux? My niece had that, and would cry after she ate and if she burpped, just about any time it would start burning. It is very common in babies today, and sometimes is caused by a pinched nerve in there back. They can do things that cause the pinched nerve so easily. My sister took her baby to get her back realined (I know it sounds crazy, but it works) and it went away completely. I would ask your Dr. about it and see if that may be the problem. Hope everything turns out well.!!

F.

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D.K.

answers from Denver on

Kids go through weird phases of separation axiety. Just comfort,keep talking to her if you leave the room. Try to keep her as preoccupied as possible, with toys, a baby video or whatever. If she doesn't stop in a few days, call your dr just to rule out anything else. I know all kids go through this at one point or another. Does she stop crying when you pick her up? If so it is probably what it is. Try teething tablets too, they are natural and will help relieve her pain.

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A.M.

answers from Salt Lake City on

Probably not teething. I'd take her in to have her ears checked though.

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L.C.

answers from Denver on

Have you tried orajel and tylenol? My daughter did that as well when she teethed. Sometimes they do it out of habit when they know they can be held. I suggest putting her down and letting her cry and do not pick her up until the second she stops. When she does stop, immediately pick her up. Then, put her down after you are ready to. Keep doing that process (and do not pick her up until she's not crying) until she figures out that when she's quiet she's rewarded. She'll catch on. It may take a while, but it works. Babies are smarter than we think and they figure things out pretty quickly. I'm having to do the same thing with our third child! :) Good luck! I know it is so frustrating to listen to it, but a day of this may just do the trick :)

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E.W.

answers from Salt Lake City on

Maybe you should take her in to the doctor. It might be an ear infection or something. It certainly doesn't sound normal.

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K.D.

answers from Denver on

My oldest would do this when he was sick and I would put him in the front carrier. When he outgrew that, I did the backpack. He would snuggle with my hair, and it would be pretty gross, but I could get work done, and he wasn't crying. Sometimes, I never did figure out what was causing it. You might also try Tylenol. That always helped my boys sleep, too.

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S.M.

answers from Denver on

Possible ear infection? I'd get her ears checked.

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T.J.

answers from Missoula on

Hiya, this might sound a bit strange to you, but I've seen it work with friends of mine. I've been living abroad for the past several years. When my son was a toddler (and teething) I belonged to a baby group with several German mums. When their children were teething, they have them wear a necklace of Amber beads. I thought it was a bit odd, (like how could that work right?) but I've seen it with my own eyes! try it. go to a bead store, gem/crystal shop, new age, whatever, and get your daughter a necklace of Amber beads. My friends children wore it 24/7, and they never seemed to suffer from the teething pain my son did! what do you have to lose right?

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M.B.

answers from Grand Junction on

Hi there,

Is she pulling at her ears at all? I'm wondering if she may have an ear infection?

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K.M.

answers from Fort Collins on

My child who is 11 months old is going through the same thing. She has been crying and crying from morning to night. She's cutting her first tooth so I believe that is why she is so upset.
Firt thing I would do is have her checked out by the Doctor,(you never can be too careful) then if is just teething pain, I would try teething tablets, you can find them in Walmart, Target, and grocery stores. They are wonderful and natural. I gave her three tablets and wow what a difference, she was back to her happy self. I've been giving her some every 4 hours or so. If I forget to give her some, I'm quickly reminded when the crying starts.

Best of luck! I know how it feels....
K.

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