Re: In desperate need of help
Teething is definitely a possibility.
Either way though, I don't think what you are describing is an attachment issue. In fact as unpleasant as this type of behavior is, it's actually fairly common at four months. Four months is a notoriously difficult time to be a baby. Extreme fussiness is common at this time. Babies are becoming more alert, but still don't have the skills or understanding to cope with this new alertness. My son was an absolute nightmare at four months. He would scream all. day. long. No it wasn't crying, it was full on screaming. He was waking constantly and wanting stay awake in the middle of the night. It was really miserable, but the worst of it only lasted about two weeks and after another two weeks he became a much happier little boy.
Perhaps try some different types of carriers. Some babies are picky. If you've been using an upright carrier, try a sling or a wrap or vice versa. Local baby wearing groups sometimes have lending libraries, or you can go to a store with your baby and try some on together.
For awhile at that age, a warm bath was the only thing that would stop the evening screaming in our home. Taking my son outside for walks or even standing out on the deck with him helped a lot too. For some reason he was always happier outside. Even looking out the window with him sometimes helped.
All you can do is try to comfort your baby. Mine would simply scream and scream in my arms, and it didn't feel like I was doing much comforting. However, just being there for him helped him grow out of the screaming and clinginess. This is the time when he learns you are always there for him. This is what prevents attachment issues in the future. He will get that message, but it will take a little time to get there. Soon enough he will know that mama is always there so he can have the confidence to explore on his own, and, perhaps even more importantly, he will have some new skills to help him entertain himself. I know it is tough, but it's a normal phase for a lot of babies (mine included) and it will end. It just takes time.
K. Sophia - Mama to my little lactivore, the amazing Mr. X (11/10).