#asktheexpert baby sleeps with open mouth. especially when his head is tilted /turned towards his right side. is there anything to be checked about?

Question

#asktheexpert baby sleeps with open mouth. especially when his head is tilted /turned  towards his right side. is there anything to be checked about?

Accepted Answer

If your baby is sleeping with their mouth open, especially when tilting their head to one side, it can be quite common, but there are a few considerations to keep in mind:

1. Nasal Congestion: Babies often breathe through their noses. If your baby has nasal congestion due to a cold or allergies, they may resort to breathing through their mouth while sleeping. Check for signs of a runny or stuffy nose.

2. Teething: If your baby is teething, they may experience discomfort that could lead them to sleep with their mouth open.

3. Sleep Position: Babies naturally move into various positions while sleeping, and a tilted head position might be more comfortable for them, especially if they have any nasal obstruction.

4. Oral Development: If your baby is sleeping with an open mouth consistently, it might be worth discussing with a pediatrician to rule out any oral or dental issues as they grow.

5. Sleep Apnea: In rare cases, mouth breathing can be a sign of sleep apnea, particularly if accompanied by other symptoms such as snoring or gasping for air during sleep.

Recommendations:

Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on any additional symptoms like coughing, snoring, difficulty breathing, or irritability during the day.

Consult a Pediatrician: If the mouth breathing persists or is accompanied by other concerning signs, consult your pediatrician. They may evaluate for any underlying issues and provide guidance.

Nasal Care: If you suspect congestion, consider using a saline nasal spray or a humidifier to help clear nasal passages.

In general, if your baby appears comfortable, is eating well, and does not show any distress, it may not be a cause for concern. However, regular check-ups with your pediatrician can help ensure that everything is developing normally.