Noisy Breathing in Babies: Causes, Management and When to Seek Help
Noisy breathing in babies is common and can often be harmless. However, understanding the causes and when to seek help is important for your child’s well-being.
Common Causes
- Newborn Rattles:In the first few days of life, babies often make a “rattle” or “snoring” sound due to fluid in their airways, which usually clears on its own.
- Nasal Congestion:Babies have small nasal passages, so even minor congestion from colds, dry air, or allergies can lead to noisy breathing.
- Laryngomalacia: A condition where the soft tissues above the windpipe are floppy, causing a high-pitched noise (stridor), particularly during breathing in. This often resolves by itself as the baby grows.
- Viral Infections:Croup or other viral illnesses can cause swelling in the airways, leading to more noticeable noisy breathing.
Management and Treatment:
- Saline nasal drops and gentle suctioning can clear nasal congestion.
- Humidifiers or sitting in a steamy bathroom can help soothe your baby’s airways.
- Positioning your baby with their head slightly elevated can sometimes ease breathing.
When to See an ENT Specialist:
If your baby’s breathing is persistently noisy, or if you notice signs like stridor (high-pitched breathing), laboured breathing, or if they seem distressed or unable to feed well, it’s important to consult an ENT specialist. Early evaluation can help identify any underlying issues and provide appropriate treatment to ensure your baby’s comfort and health.