Why Do Babies Sleep With Their Mouth Open?
When babies sleep, many parents notice that they breathe with their mouth open. This can be alarming and make them think something is wrong. However, there are several possible explanations as to why this happens.
Physical Development
Babies are still developing throughout their first year, and sometimes their physical features don’t quite match up yet. This could be the cause for why some babies breathe with their mouths open. Their noses are still growing, the muscles in their mouths have yet to develop, and their tongues are very small. All of these bodily features can contribute to why some babies can’t keep their mouths closed while sleeping.
Flat Nose Syndrome
Another explanation for why babies often sleep with their mouths open isdue to Flat Nose Syndrome. This condition is caused by narrow or blocked nasal passages, making it difficult for a baby to breathe through his or her nose. Babies with Flat Nose Syndrome usually have to breathe through their mouths in order to getenough air. This breathing issue can be temporary or permanent, depending on the child’s condition.
Snoring
Babies are also prone to snoring during sleep, and this can cause them to breathe with their mouths open as well. It is completely normal for babies to snore, especially if they have a cold, are lying on their backs, or if they are congested. Allergies or enlarged adenoids can also cause snoring.
Treatments
If the cause your child’s mouth breathing is physical development, then the issue will likely fix itself over time. For Flat Nose Syndrome, parents may have to consult a specialist about ways to reduce blockage in the child’s nasal passages. For snoring, parents can reduce the snoring by keeping their child away from allergens, dust, and steam.
In conclusion, there are several reasons why a baby may sleep with their mouth open. In most cases, the cause is nothing to worry about and the issue will fix itself over time. However, if the issue persists, parents should consult their doctor to find potential treatments.