Babies often make various sounds, and snorting is a common noise that can concern parents, especially when the baby is crying. This sound frequently occurs in newborns and infants due to their developing respiratory systems. While typically harmless, understanding these sounds helps parents discern when snorting is a normal developmental phase and when it might indicate a need for medical attention.
Understanding Common Causes
A primary reason for snorting sounds in infants relates to their nasal passages. Newborns are obligate nasal breathers, meaning they primarily breathe through their noses, and these passages are very small. Even a minimal amount of mucus can cause them to sound congested, leading to snorts or whistles as air passes through. This mucus is a natural part of their body’s defense, helping to keep the nostrils moist and trap airborne particles.
Congestion due to normal mucus production, common colds, or even dry environmental air can contribute to these noises. When mucus accumulates, it can create a rattling or snorting sound, especially during crying when breathing patterns change. Feeding can also lead to temporary congestion, as milk or formula might briefly affect the nasal passages.
Mild acid reflux, a condition where stomach contents flow back into the esophagus, can also irritate a baby’s nasal passages. This irritation may cause inflammation and stuffiness, contributing to snorting sounds. Another factor can be anatomical variations, such as laryngomalacia, where the tissue above the vocal cords is softer than usual. This softness can cause a high-pitched, squeaky sound called stridor, which often becomes louder when the baby cries, feeds, or lies down. Most cases of laryngomalacia are mild and tend to resolve on their own as the baby grows, typically by 1 to 2 years of age.
Identifying Concerning Symptoms
While snorting is usually harmless, certain accompanying symptoms suggest medical evaluation. Signs of difficulty breathing include flaring nostrils, indicating increased effort to get air. Retractions, where skin pulls in around the ribs, neck, or chest, signify the baby is working harder to breathe. Grunting sounds, rapid breathing, or a fast breathing rate can also signal respiratory distress.
Changes in skin color, particularly a bluish tint around the lips or face (central cyanosis), are a serious symptom. This discoloration indicates insufficient oxygen and warrants immediate medical attention. Central cyanosis differs from acrocyanosis, a benign bluish tint often seen on hands, feet, or around the mouth in newborns, especially when cold.
Behavioral changes, such as unusual sleepiness, lethargy, or excessive irritability, can also signal an underlying issue. A baby difficult to wake for feedings or less alert than usual should be assessed. Poor feeding, characterized by refusal to eat or inadequate weight gain, may also be a symptom. Any fever, especially in an infant under three months, should prompt medical consultation. If snorting persists or worsens with any of these symptoms, seek professional medical advice.
Supportive Care and Medical Guidance
For mild snorting, home care strategies can provide comfort. A cool-mist humidifier can moisten the air, loosening mucus and easing congestion. Saline nasal drops thin mucus, making it easier to clear. A gentle nasal aspirator can then suction loosened mucus.
Proper feeding techniques can minimize snorting related to feeding. Ensure a good latch during breastfeeding or appropriate bottle positioning to reduce air intake. Smaller, more frequent feeds may also help manage reflux-related congestion.
Contact a pediatrician if snorting persists, is accompanied by concerning symptoms (difficulty breathing, color changes, lethargy, poor feeding, fever), or if you are worried. For severe breathing difficulty, such as significant retractions or blue discoloration, seek emergency medical attention immediately.