Why does my baby have noisy breathing when breastfeeding?

Understanding Noisy Breathing in Babies During Breastfeeding
Noisy breathing in infants, particularly during breastfeeding, can be a source of concern for many new parents. However, it is essential to understand that some degree of noisy breathing is quite common and often not a cause for alarm.
Common Causes of Noisy Breathing
One of the most prevalent reasons for noisy breathing in babies is laryngomalacia, a condition where the larynx (voice box) is soft and floppy. This condition can lead to a characteristic sound known as stridor, which is often heard during inhalation. While laryngomalacia is the most common cause of noisy breathing in infants, it typically requires intervention in only a small number of cases . Most infants with this condition will outgrow it as their larynx matures.
Another frequent cause of noisy breathing during breastfeeding is nasal congestion. Babies are obligate nasal breathers, meaning they primarily breathe through their noses. If their nasal passages are blocked—due to mucus or other factors—they may produce sounds like snorting or grunting while feeding. This can be particularly noticeable during breastfeeding when the baby is sucking and swallowing, which can create a rhythmic pattern of sounds, including occasional clicking noises.
Breathing Patterns During Feeding
When breastfeeding, a baby’s breathing pattern can also contribute to the sounds they make. As they suck and swallow, they may pause to breathe, leading to a series of rhythmic sounds. This is a normal part of the feeding process, and parents may notice their baby making various noises, including grunts or clicks, as they navigate the feeding.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While many instances of noisy breathing are benign, there are situations where parents should consult a healthcare professional. If the noisy breathing is accompanied by signs of distress, such as grunting, difficulty breathing, or if the baby appears to be in pain, it is crucial to seek medical attention. Additionally, if the noisy breathing persists or worsens, it may warrant further evaluation to rule out any underlying conditions.
In summary, while noisy breathing during breastfeeding can be concerning, it is often a normal part of an infant’s development. Understanding the common causes, such as laryngomalacia and nasal congestion, can help parents navigate these early feeding experiences with greater confidence. If there are any doubts or concerns, consulting a pediatrician is always a wise choice.

Why can I hear my baby swallowing air while breastfeeding?

The sounds of “gulping” and “clicking” can signify a poor vacuum is in place and the child is swallowing more air then milk. The infant’s hands should be open and relax and eye contact maintained with the mother.

Why does my baby make noise when breastfeeding?

Sometimes you may hear your baby gulping, especially if you have lots of milk. Clicking or smacking sounds may mean that your baby is not latched correctly. Your nipple looks rounded, not flattened, when your baby comes off your breast.

Why does my baby breathe so loud when breastfeeding?

Laryngomalacia is caused by floppy tissue falling over the larynx (voice box) and partially blocking the airway when a child breathes in. The sound from laryngomalacia is often a high-pitched squeak that often worsens when the baby is agitated, feeding, crying, or sleeping on his or her back.

Why is my baby so loud when feeding?

Why is my baby making clicking noises?

• Poor positioning/latch
• A strong, forceful letdown
• Engorgement
• Poor tongue mobility/function (Such as tongue tie)
• A weakness of the tongue
• Inability to maintain a seal due to weak muscles or restricted lip (lip tie)
• Body tension or physical limitations such as Torticollis

Why does my baby gurgle breathing after feeding?

Reflux. It’s no mystery that all babies have reflux, some worse than others. Reflux can cause fussiness, back arching , a lot of spit up and sometimes even a gurgling noise after feeds (or in sleep). In summary, most of the noises your baby makes are perfectly normal.

What is silent reflux in babies?

Sometimes babies may have signs of reflux but will not bring up milk or be sick. This is known as silent reflux.

When should I be concerned about my baby’s noisy breathing?

If your child is struggling to breathe, they need to be seen urgently by a medical practitioner and are likely to need treatment. If your child has croup (hoarse voice, barking cough, noisy breathing), they will also need to be seen by a medical practitioner.

Does breastfeeding cause breathing problems?

Our previous studies have found that atopic children who have mothers with asthma are more likely to develop asthma if they are breastfed (12). The mechanisms by which breastfeeding may be associated with an increase in risk of asthma in offspring of mothers with asthma are not understood.

Is it normal for babies to sound congested while breastfeeding?

Babies may experience congestion in their nose (called nasal congestion), or it may sound as though the congestion is in their chest. The symptoms differ depending on where the congestion occurs. Nasal congestion is more likely, and if the baby is happy and feeding normally, this is normal and the baby is likely fine.

Why is my baby wheezing while breastfeeding?

Why is my baby wheezing? A food allergy, e.g. Cows’ Milk Allergy (CMA), or other allergies, such as to dust or pollen can cause your baby to wheeze. A chronic disease such as asthma can cause your baby to wheeze.