Newborn sleeping with mouth open

Sleep
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Hi everyone,

My 2-month-old often sleeps with his mouth open. Is this normal, or should I be concerned? Has anyone else experienced this with their baby?

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Concerned that my baby was likewise an open-mouth sleeper (but always a nose breather), I approached my pediatrician about this. “Cute,” she remarked. Thus, there is no need for concern.

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Hi Lucas, It’s normal for babies, especially newborns, to sleep with their mouths open due to nasal congestion from colds or allergies. However, consistent mouth breathing could indicate underlying issues:

  • Nasal Congestion: Common in young babies due to colds or allergies.
  • Deviated Septum: Misalignment in the nasal passage affecting breathing.
  • Sleep Apnea: Rarely, mouth breathing may signal sleep apnea.
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It’s quite normal for babies to sleep with their mouths open, particularly at a young age. This is often due to nasal congestion or a stuffy nose.

When to Be Concerned: Though usually harmless, persistent mouth breathing might signal an underlying issue, such as:

  • Nasal Congestion: Conditions like colds, allergies, or a deviated septum can obstruct nasal passages.
  • Sleep Apnea: In rare cases, mouth breathing could indicate sleep apnea.

What to Do:

  • Monitor Symptoms: If your baby shows signs of breathing difficulties, such as snoring, wheezing, or pauses in breathing, consult a pediatrician.
  • Manage Congestion: Use saline drops or a humidifier to help clear nasal passages.
  • Create a Safe Sleep Environment: Ensure your baby sleeps on their back on a firm, flat surface.

If you’re concerned about your baby’s mouth breathing, it’s always best to check with your pediatrician for guidance.

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Babies often have their mouths open as they sleep. As their breathing habits mature and their nasal passageways get more narrow or clogged, many newborns do this. But it’s worth talking to your paediatrician if you’re worried, particularly if your child appears to be having trouble breathing or exhibits symptoms of nasal congestion or other problems.

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There may be a higher chance of respiratory infections. Since the nose has natural filters and humidifiers, breathing through the mouth can put a baby at risk for upper respiratory conditions including sinusitis and colds.

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Hi CharlotteAmelia,

You’re absolutely right—babies often sleep with their mouths open due to nasal congestion, which is quite common. However, if mouth breathing persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, it could point to underlying issues such as:

  • Nasal Congestion: This can be due to colds, allergies, or other irritants.
  • Deviated Septum: A misalignment in the nasal passage might affect their ability to breathe through the nose.
  • Sleep Apnea: Although rare in babies, consistent mouth breathing could potentially signal sleep apnea or other sleep disorders.

If you’re concerned, it might be a good idea to consult with a pediatrician to rule out any significant issues and ensure your baby’s comfort and health.