Snoring in Kids: When to Worry
Toddler Snoring: What Ontario Parents Need to Know
Hearing your little one snore loudly can be startling, especially when it sounds like a tiny freight train in the nursery. While occasional light snoring is usually normal for toddlers, loud or frequent snoring might signal something worth checking out. The good news is that most causes are treatable, and you're being a great parent by paying attention.
What's going on?
Snoring happens when air can't flow freely through your toddler's nose and throat during sleep. Their airways are naturally smaller than adults', which makes them more prone to the vibrations that create snoring sounds.
Sometimes it's just temporary. A cold, allergies, or even sleeping position can cause short-term snoring that clears up on its own. But if your toddler snores loudly most nights, it could mean their airways are being blocked by enlarged tonsils, adenoids, or other issues.
Sleep-disordered breathing affects about 1 in 10 children, so you're definitely not alone if you're dealing with this. The key is figuring out whether it's occasional snoring or something that needs attention.
What you might notice
- Loud, regular snoring most nights
- Pauses in breathing during sleep
- Restless sleep or frequent waking
- Mouth breathing during the day
- Morning headaches or grogginess
- Difficulty concentrating or hyperactivity during the day
What helps at home
Keep your toddler's bedroom air moist with a humidifier, especially during Ontario's dry winter months. This can help reduce congestion that contributes to snoring.
Make sure they're sleeping on their back or side rather than their stomach, and keep their head slightly elevated with an extra pillow if they're old enough for one. Clearing any stuffiness before bed with saline drops can also help air flow more freely.
If allergies seem to be playing a role, try to identify and minimize triggers like dust, pet dander, or pollen. Regular washing of bedding in hot water and keeping pets out of the bedroom can make a difference.
When to worry
Head to the emergency room if you notice your toddler has long pauses in breathing (more than 10 seconds), turns blue around the lips or face, or seems to be struggling to breathe while sleeping.
Reach out to your doctor or text Arlo if the loud snoring happens most nights, your child seems tired during the day despite sleeping, or you notice behavioural changes like increased irritability or difficulty paying attention. These could be signs that the snoring is affecting their sleep quality and overall health.
The takeaway
Most toddler snoring is harmless and temporary, but loud, frequent snoring deserves a closer look. Trust your instincts as a parent, you know your child best.
You can always text Arlo and talk to a provider in 5 minutes!
References
- [Sleep Problems](https://caringforkids.cps.ca/handouts/behavior-and-development/sleep_problems)
- [Sleep Apnea in Children](https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/article?contentid=1918&language=english)
- [Snoring in Children](https://www.ontario.ca/page/snoring-children)