Babies primarily breathe through their nose, but if their nose is blocked, they can breathe through their mouth.
While nasal breathing is their default, newborns and young infants have a reflex that allows them to open their mouths to breathe when their nasal passages are obstructed. This is crucial because newborns often experience nasal congestion due to leftover amniotic fluid or mucus. This mouth breathing adaptation, however, can make feeding more difficult, as babies need to coordinate sucking, swallowing, and breathing. A blocked nose might cause them to become frustrated and stop feeding.
Here's a breakdown:
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Nasal Preference: Babies prefer to breathe through their nose, as it warms and humidifies the air.
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Mouth Breathing as Backup: When the nasal passages are blocked due to congestion, mucus, or other obstructions, babies will instinctively breathe through their mouth.
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Impact on Feeding: Mouth breathing during a stuffy nose can interrupt feeding since babies need to coordinate sucking and breathing, both using their mouths.
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Relief Strategies:
- Saline Drops: Using saline drops can help to loosen mucus in the nasal passages.
- Suction: Gentle suction with a bulb syringe can help remove mucus.
- Humidifier: A cool mist humidifier can help to keep the nasal passages moist.
- Positioning: Holding the baby upright can also assist in drainage.
- Consult a Doctor: If the nasal congestion is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms like fever or difficulty breathing, it is always best to consult with a pediatrician.
Therefore, although nasal breathing is preferred, babies are equipped to breathe through their mouths when necessary to overcome nasal obstruction.
