My Little Baby Snoring?

Babies tend to make all sorts of noises when they are awake, and it’s the cutest thing ever! But when it comes to nighttime, is it normal for your baby to snore or emit whistling sounds whilst sleeping?

According to experts, some snoring, sniffling and whistling are normal as baby’s airways are still very narrow and filled with secretions. This will usually go away on its own as your baby grows. Meanwhile, here are a few things you can do to help your baby breathe easier at night.

Clear the nasal passages

Squirt a few drops of salty nasal spray into your baby’s nose. You can buy this over-the-counter, or make your own salt water mixture (a quarter teaspoon with about 250ml water) at home. Then, use a nasal aspirator to gently suck out the excess secretions.

Use an air humidifier/take a warm shower

A humid environment may help loosen the excess secretions in your baby’s airways. So, invest in a good air humidifier, or give your baby a warm shower before bedtime to help unclog her nose.

However, if you notice that your baby’s snoring doesn’t subside over time, or if it is preventing her from getting quality sleep, it is best to bring her to the doctor for a check-up. The doctor can determine if your baby is experiencing a more serious issue, such as a deviated septum which obstructs the airflow in one nostril, structural abnormalities in the throat, or a condition called laryngomalacia where the cartilage that helps to keep your baby’s breathing passage open, is not fully developed. Nonetheless, these chronic cases are rare and your baby will outgrow her snoring in no time!