Your baby likely snorts like a pig when sleeping because newborns primarily breathe through their noses, and their nasal passages are still very small and easily congested.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
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Nasal Breathing: Babies are obligate nasal breathers for the first few months of life. This means they naturally prefer to breathe through their nose rather than their mouth.
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Small Nasal Passages: A newborn's nasal passages are incredibly tiny. Even small amounts of mucus, dust, or dried milk can partially block them.
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New Environment: After spending nine months in the womb, a baby's lungs and nose are adjusting to breathing air in a drier environment. This can lead to increased mucus production.
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Snorting is Normal: The snorting sound is simply the air passing through partially blocked nasal passages. It's a very common occurrence in newborns and usually nothing to worry about.
What you can do:
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Use a Saline Spray or Drops: Gently use saline spray or drops in your baby's nostrils to help loosen any mucus. Follow your pediatrician's guidance on usage.
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Suction with a Bulb Syringe: After using saline, gently suction out the mucus with a bulb syringe. Be careful not to insert the syringe too far into the nostril.
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Humidify the Air: Use a humidifier in your baby's room to add moisture to the air. This can help prevent nasal passages from drying out.
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Elevate the Head of the Crib: Slightly elevate the head of your baby's crib or bassinet to help with drainage. (Ensure it's a slight incline and that the baby is still safely on their back.)
When to Worry:
While snorting is usually harmless, contact your pediatrician if your baby:
- Has difficulty breathing
- Is retracting their chest (skin pulling in between the ribs)
- Is flaring their nostrils
- Is turning blue
- Has a fever
- Is feeding poorly
