Gina Johnson
It's not uncommon for newborns to make strange noises when they sleep, and panting is one of them. There are many reasons why your newborn might be panting in their sleep, and it's usually nothing to worry about. In fact, it's often considered a normal and even cute part of infancy. However, it's important to be aware of your baby's breathing patterns and any potential triggers to best respond to their needs.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Panting | A way for babies to calm down from excitement and overstimulation |
| Can be caused by sensory overload | |
| Can be caused by reflux | |
| Can be caused by the baby's environment being too warm | |
| May be accompanied by holding breath | |
| May be accompanied by grunting | |
| May be accompanied by wheezing or mucous | |
| May be accompanied by coughing | |
| May be accompanied by fever | |
| May be accompanied by blue or purple lips | |
| May be a sign of asthma | |
| May be a sign of a healthy baby with a growing and developing brain | |
| May be a sign of the baby discovering new noises they can make | |
| May be a sign of the baby's developing breathing patterns | |
| May be a sign of the baby's developing senses | |
| Is usually normal and temporary | |
| Can be managed by creating a calm and controlled environment |
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What You'll Learn
Panting as a response to excitement or overstimulation
It is common for infants to pant when feeling excited, as it is a natural and innate reaction. A baby's breathing can resemble panting in times of excitement, arousal, or distress. Panting in babies is often characterised by rapid, shallow breathing. This is because babies' lungs are still developing, and they have a very small lung capacity.
Babies are highly sensitive to their surroundings, and multiple stimuli such as bright lights, loud sounds, and various activities happening simultaneously can overwhelm their developing senses. This sensory overload can lead to panting as a way for them to calm down from the excitement and overstimulation. Creating a calm and controlled environment can help reduce instances of panting due to sensory overload.
Panting can also be a response to physical activity. Activities such as crawling, rolling over, or vigorous play can be quite the workout for a baby. The energy expenditure from these activities can cause them to breathe faster and more shallowly, resulting in panting. This is a normal response to physical activity and usually subsides once they rest.
Panting could also be an expression of their excitement when they know that a meal is imminent. It takes a lot of energy for babies to crawl, and they are also learning how to breathe through their mouths at this stage. This type of breathing, especially when accompanied by a lot of movement, could sound a lot like panting.
If you are concerned about your baby's panting, it is important to be familiar with the signs of breathing difficulty. Take a video of your baby's breathing and show it to a doctor.
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Creating a calm environment to reduce panting
It is common for newborns to exhibit panting during sleep, and while it can be concerning for new parents, there are often simple explanations and solutions to this phenomenon. One effective approach to reducing panting is to create a calm and soothing environment for your baby's sleep. Here are some detailed instructions to create a tranquil atmosphere:
Start by evaluating the sleep space. Ensure that your baby's crib or bassinet is situated in a quiet, peaceful corner of the room, away from any loud noises or bright lights that could be disruptive. Soft, gentle lighting can be comforting and help signal that it's time for sleep. Use a night light or a small lamp with a warm, low-wattage bulb to provide a soothing glow.
Maintain a comfortable temperature in the room. Overheating can contribute to restlessness and panting, so keep the sleep area well-ventilated and slightly on the cooler side. Use lightweight, breathable bedding and pajamas to ensure your baby stays comfortable throughout the night.
Create white noise to establish a consistent, soothing backdrop that can block out unexpected sounds that might startle your baby and cause them to pant. White noise machines, fans, or soft instrumental music can all provide a calming ambiance that promotes peaceful sleep. Nature sounds, such as rain or waves, can also be very effective in creating a tranquil environment.
Consider using a pacifier, as it can help soothe your baby to sleep and keep them calm throughout the night. If your baby accepts a pacifier, it can be a useful tool to reduce panting by satisfying their natural sucking reflex and providing comfort. Just be sure to follow safe sleep practices and never force a pacifier if your baby resists.
Establish a bedtime routine that includes calming activities before sleep. Reading a story, singing lullabies, or giving your baby a gentle massage with soothing lotion can all help signal that it's time to relax and prepare for sleep. Consistency is key, so try to follow the same routine each night to create a sense of familiarity and security.
Finally, ensure your baby is getting enough sleep during the day. Overtiredness can lead to restless sleep at night, so provide opportunities for naps throughout the day in a calm, quiet environment. By creating a peaceful and consistent sleep environment, you can help reduce panting and promote longer, more restful sleep for your newborn. Remember that every baby is unique, so you may need to experiment with different techniques to find what works best for your little one.
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Baby breathing patterns and when to be concerned
It is common for newborns to breathe irregularly and rapidly, and they may also experience periods of slow, regular breaths. Newborns breathe faster than older babies, kids, and adults, and they primarily breathe through their noses. Their breathing pathways are much smaller and easier to obstruct, and their chest wall is more pliable than an adult's.
Babies often make unusual noises when they breathe, and they may also pant when excited. This is usually normal and can be caused by sensory overload, which can be reduced by creating a calm and controlled environment. Baby panting refers to rapid, shallow breathing that can resemble a dog's panting.
While most breathing patterns are normal, there are some warning signs that parents should be aware of. If a newborn is having significant difficulty breathing or has a blue, purple, or gray tinge to their skin, lips, tongue, fingernails, or toenails, seek emergency medical care. Other warning signs include a baby holding their breath for more than 20 seconds at a time or a fever within the first 28 days of life.
If you are concerned about your baby's breathing, it is always best to consult a pediatrician or a doctor. They can provide professional guidance and help determine if there is any underlying issue that needs attention.
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Dressing your baby for sleep
Wrapping and Swaddling
Wrapping your baby can help them settle for sleep and reduce the likelihood of them waking up if they startle. You can wrap newborns until they start showing signs of being able to roll onto their tummies, usually around 3-4 months. Use lightweight cotton or muslin wraps that don't cover your baby's head, ears, or chin, and ensure the wrap isn't too tight around their chest and hips. In warm weather, a nappy and singlet are enough to wear under the wrap, while in cooler weather, a lightweight jumpsuit or layers of clothing can be added.
Swaddling is another option for newborns, but it is important to consider the benefits and risks. Swaddling can calm some babies and aid their sleep, but it can become risky once they start rolling over, as it is difficult for them to turn back.
Dressing for Temperature
It is important to dress your baby in enough clothing to keep them warm without blankets, as blankets can increase the risk of suffocation and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Dress your baby in one or more layers, depending on the bedroom temperature, to ensure they don't overheat or get too cold. As a general rule, your baby should have only one more layer than an adult would need to stay warm in the same bedroom.
The recommended temperature for adults and babies to feel comfortable is between 68-72°Fahrenheit or 20-22.2°Celsius. It is common for babies to have cold hands or feet, so gauge their temperature by feeling their core, neck, or chest area.
Infant Sleeping Bags
If your baby doesn't like being wrapped or has outgrown wrapping, you can use an infant sleeping bag or suit. These are fitted bags or suits with armholes or sleeves, a fitted neck, and no hood, designed to keep your baby's head and face uncovered. When using a sleeping bag, ensure your baby can't slip down into the bag and that their face doesn't become covered by material when they lift their arms.
Panting in Newborns
It is common for newborns to pant during sleep, and it is usually nothing to worry about. Panting can be a way for babies to calm down from excitement or overstimulation due to sensory overload. Creating a calm and controlled environment can help reduce instances of panting. Observe your baby's panting patterns and triggers, and consult a doctor if you have any concerns about their breathing.
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Safe sleep environments
Panting in newborns is usually a normal response to excitement or overstimulation. Babies are highly sensitive to their surroundings, and multiple stimuli in their environment can lead to sensory overload, causing them to pant to calm down. Creating a calm and controlled environment can help reduce panting.
To ensure your newborn has a safe sleep environment, it is important to follow these guidelines:
Safe Sleep Surface
The sleep surface, or mattress, should be firm, flat, and level. It should be covered with a tight-fitting sheet over a well-fitted waterproof mattress protector. The mattress protector should not be padded or soft, as this can interfere with your baby's breathing if they roll over.
Clear Space
Ensure there is a clear space of about 30 cm around the cot or portacot. Remove any items that your baby can reach, such as plastic bags, blind cords, mosquito nets, and electrical cords. If you are co-sleeping, make sure the space is large enough for everyone and that there is still a clear area around the baby.
Smoke-Free Environment
Keep the baby's environment smoke and vapour-free, both before and after birth. Smoking and vaping increase the risk of Sudden Unexpected Death in Infancy (SUDI), even when done away from the baby.
Sleep Position
The recommended sleep position for babies is on their back. This position helps keep their airways open and reduces the risk of SUDI and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is associated with a reduced risk of SUDI, including SIDS and fatal sleeping accidents.
Remember, panting in newborns is usually a normal response to excitement or stimulation. However, if you have any concerns about your baby's breathing patterns or notice any warning signs, such as blue or purple lips, prolonged breath-holding (more than 20 seconds), or fever in the early days of life, don't hesitate to consult your pediatrician.
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Frequently asked questions
Newborns can make strange noises and pant during sleep due to their developing senses and breathing patterns. It's common for them to experience periods of rapid breathing followed by slower, more regular breaths. This pattern is typical and usually nothing to worry about.
Here are some tips to help you understand and manage your newborn's panting:
- Monitor and Observe: Keep an eye on your baby's panting patterns and triggers. Does it happen during sleep, playtime, feeding, or when they encounter new experiences?
- Create a Calm Environment: If you suspect that sensory overload is causing your baby to pant, try reducing loud noises, dimming the lights, and limiting new stimuli.
- Consult a Doctor: If you have concerns about your baby's breathing, don't hesitate to consult a pediatrician. They can provide guidance and help determine if there are any underlying issues.
While most of the time, noisy breathing is not a cause for concern, there are some warning signs to watch out for. These include:
- Blue or purple lips
- Holding their breath for more than 20 seconds at a time
- Fever in the first 28 days of life
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing
- Coughing or mucousy sounds
