Question
Recently, I’ve noticed that my baby often sleeps with their mouth open at night. Is this a normal phenomenon? How should it be corrected? Please explain this phenomenon by an expert.
Answer
When a baby sleeps with their mouth open, parents can listen to their breathing sounds to determine if it’s through the nose or mouth. If the baby primarily uses mouth breathing, it may indicate that the nasal passages are blocked, forcing the baby to breathe through the mouth. The nasal hairs help expel inhaled microorganisms and dust, while the paranasal sinuses help warm the inhaled air. Mouth breathing deprives the baby of this protective mechanism, increasing the risk of illness. Therefore, it is recommended that parents pay attention to their baby’s breathing method and seek medical assistance when necessary to ensure their baby’s health.