While a newborn's snorting sounds are not always dangerous, parents should not be complacent. Often, these are normal physiological occurrences, but some babies require early medical evaluation to rule out underlying conditions.

Newborns have small, narrow airways. Mucus, excess milk, or air passing through can easily create rough breathing or snorting sounds, especially during sleep or feeding. This condition often improves as the child grows.

Babies born via C-section face a higher risk of postnatal respiratory issues compared to those born vaginally. This delivery method can affect the transition of a baby's cardiorespiratory system from the womb to the outside world. The respiratory system may absorb fluid in the airways and lungs more slowly, increasing the likelihood of breathing problems. Furthermore, C-section babies have an elevated risk of respiratory illnesses and immune-allergic conditions.

A newborn doing skin-to-skin with its mother helps stabilize breathing. Illustration: Tam Anh General Hospital.

If your baby only has rough breathing or snorting but is feeding well, has pink skin, sleeps peacefully, has no fever, no rapid breathing, and no chest indrawing, parents can monitor them at home. Keep the baby's nose clear by gently applying physiological saline drops and wiping.

Parents should learn how to count a newborn's respiratory rate. When the baby is calm, not crying or feeding, observe their chest or abdomen rising and falling, and count for one minute. The normal respiratory rate for infants under 6 months is 30-60 breaths per minute.

Conversely, if a baby frequently snorts and also wheezes, this could indicate an underlying medical condition. Parents should take their child to the nearest healthcare facility for examination.

Some babies may produce a whistling sound, known as laryngeal stridor, while feeding or crying. This can be due to soft laryngeal cartilage and often improves over time. However, if the stridor is continuous and accompanied by other unusual respiratory signs, it may indicate acute laryngitis, requiring early examination, diagnosis, and treatment.

Seek immediate medical attention if your baby exhibits any of the following signs: breathing faster than 60 times per minute, labored breathing, chest indrawing, nasal flaring, bluish lips or extremities, poor feeding, refusing to feed, excessive crying, lethargy, fever, or a cough. These symptoms suggest potential respiratory distress requiring prompt intervention.

When caring for newborns at home, ensure the room is clean, well-ventilated, and has moderate humidity. Protect the baby from cigarette smoke, strong fragrances, and cold drafts. Prioritize breastfeeding to enhance immunity. Do not administer cough medicine, antibiotics, or folk remedies without a clear diagnosis.

Master of Science, Doctor Nguyen Thu Van

Deputy Head of Neonatology Department

Tam Anh General Hospital Hanoi