Question

A newborn at 10 days old is snoring and bubble burping while sleeping. How can this be resolved?

Answer

Snoring and bubble burping in newborns while sleeping can be a normal physiological occurrence, but may also be a sign of respiratory issues. Typically, when there is an excessive amount of saliva in the baby’s oropharynx, and since their swallowing function is not fully developed, these fluids may leak out or reflux into the throat while the baby is sleeping, causing a noise during exhalation. However, if these symptoms persist or worsen, it is advisable to consult a doctor to rule out any potential respiratory problems. In most cases, keeping the baby upright for some time after feeding, gently patting their back to help expel excess air from the stomach, and ensuring that the baby’s sleeping environment is well-ventilated can help reduce these occurrences. If the problem persists or is accompanied by other symptoms such as difficulty breathing or fever, medical attention should be sought immediately.