When children get enough quality sleep, they tend to grow and develop better. However, some children experience snoring, which can be concerning for parents—especially if the issue persists. While occasional snoring isn’t usually a cause for worry, persistent snoring may be a sign of an underlying health condition.
Here’s what you need to know, according to BabyCenter, about the causes of snoring in children, symptoms to watch for, and how to help your child sleep more soundly.
Causes of Snoring in Children
1. Excess Weight
Being overweight is linked to several health issues in children, including snoring during sleep. Fatty tissue around the neck can compress the airway, making it narrower and causing the child to snore throughout the night.
2. Asthma
Asthma can lead to narrowed airways, swelling, and increased mucus production—all of which can result in breathing difficulties and nighttime snoring. Asthma is treatable, so consult a doctor for appropriate care.
3. Allergies and Nasal Congestion
Allergic reactions can cause nasal inflammation and blockage, making it hard for your child to breathe normally at night. Common allergens include dust mites, pet dander, and pollen.
In addition to allergy medications, consider:
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Using hypoallergenic bedding
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Replacing pillows and blankets with allergy-friendly options
4. Enlarged Tonsils or Adenoids
Tonsils and adenoids are located near the back of the throat and are part of the immune system. If they become enlarged or infected, they can block the airway and cause snoring or sleep disturbances.
5. Exposure to Cigarette Smoke
Regular exposure to cigarette smoke can irritate the respiratory tract and significantly increase the risk of snoring in children.
Warning Signs of Problematic Snoring in Children
Snoring doesn’t always mean there’s a serious issue, but keep an eye out for these symptoms:
During Sleep:
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Snoring almost every night
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Episodes of choking or pauses in breathing
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Waking up due to breathing issues
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Restlessness during sleep
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Sweating or bedwetting while asleep
During the Day:
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Fatigue or sleepiness during the day
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Excessive napping
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Difficulty waking up in the morning
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Irritability or behavioral problems
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Mouth breathing
Persistent snoring may indicate Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSAS)—a condition where breathing briefly stops during sleep. This can lead to behavioral issues such as hyperactivity, attention disorders, and even depression.
How to Reduce or Prevent Snoring in Children
1. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Helping your child reach and maintain a healthy weight reduces pressure on the airway and decreases the chances of snoring. Aerobic activities can also help improve nighttime breathing.
2. Avoid Heavy Meals Before Bed
A heavy dinner close to bedtime can increase snoring. Try offering a lighter meal in the evening.
3. Consult a Doctor
If snoring is persistent, a doctor can examine your child for breathing disorders, asthma, or allergies. Based on findings, they may refer you to an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist.
4. Encourage Healthy Sleep Habits
Create a calm and sleep-friendly environment:
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Keep the bedroom dark, quiet, and cool
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Stick to a consistent bedtime routine
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Avoid screens before bed
5. Use a Pillow to Elevate the Head
If your child is snoring due to a cold or nasal congestion, placing a small pillow under the head can ease breathing temporarily.
6. Use an Air Purifier
For children with allergies, an air purifier can help remove dust, pollen, and pet dander from the air.
7. Try a Saline Spray
If nasal congestion is the cause, saline sprays or rinses can help clear nasal passages and reduce snoring.
When Is Surgery Necessary?
In severe cases, a child may need surgical intervention, such as:
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Tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy (removal of tonsils and adenoids) if they're causing airway obstruction
If snoring doesn't improve, your child may be suffering from chronic sleep apnea, which can prevent restful sleep. In these cases, surgery can improve breathing and sleep quality significantly.
Final Note
While occasional snoring in children is common and often harmless, chronic snoring should not be ignored. Identifying the cause and addressing it early—whether through lifestyle changes, medical treatment, or surgery—can help your child sleep better, breathe easier, and thrive both physically and emotionally.
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