Baby Snoring – Cause for Worry?

In most cases of a baby snoring, it is not a sign of a potentially serious respiratory or other medical condition. Babies are frequently noisy breathers, particularly when they’re newborn.

More rarely, however, babies’ snoring – especially if it does not go away after sixth month – may be indicative of an ongoing medical condition for which medical attention is advised.

Below, you can find some common causes for baby snoring, as well as certain modes of treatment.

Undeveloped Nasal Passages

In the first weeks and months of life, babies’ organs are still maturing. Babies have to learn to swallow excess saliva, which, when it pools in a baby’s nasal passages, may cause snore-like sounds to be emitted.

A baby’s nasal passages may be gently cleared with a small amount of salt water or steam.

Laryngomalacia

This is a case of undeveloped nasal cartilage constricting the flow of air throughout a baby’s respiratory system. It should resolve itself by the time a baby is six months old.

Abnormal Nasal Passages

Certain deformities of the nasal passages, such as enlarged tonsils, may cause snoring in babies, and it will not cease after the respiratory system is fully developed. If you suspect this is the case, consult a pediatrician for possible treatments.

Allergies and sleep apnea

Both of these are potentially serious conditions that, in some case, result in the severe constriction of nasal passages.

If you suspect your baby may be allergic to something, consult your pediatrician to determine the offending allergens, and then keep them away from your baby. Medication may be prescribed.

Sleep apnea causes the temporary cessation of breathing in babies and adults, rarely causing immediate damage. Over time, however, arteries may be damaged from increased blood pressure. Consult your doctor for more information.

Remember: if you hear your baby snoring, it is more likely a sign that your baby is growing and developing healthily than it is a cause for alarm.