Common ENT Causes Parents Should Know
Snoring and mouth breathing in children are often brushed off as “just a phase.” However, when these patterns persist, they may signal an underlying ear, nose, and throat (ENT) condition that affects breathing, sleep quality, and daily functioning.
Key Pointers
- Persistent snoring in children is not always normal
- Mouth breathing often suggests ongoing nasal blockage
- Common ENT causes include enlarged adenoids, nasal allergies, and chronic congestion
- Poor sleep quality can affect concentration, growth, and behaviour
- An ENT assessment can help identify the cause and guide management
Is Snoring Normal in Children?
Occasional snoring during a cold or flu is common. However, regular or loud snoring, especially when paired with mouth breathing, may indicate partial airway obstruction during sleep.
Parents should take note if snoring:
- Occurs most nights
- Is loud or disruptive
- Is accompanied by restless sleep, gasping, or pauses in breathing
What Causes Snoring and Mouth Breathing in Children?
Several ENT-related conditions can interfere with normal nasal breathing.
Could Enlarged Adenoids Be the Cause?
Adenoids are lymphoid tissues located behind the nose. In some children, they can become enlarged and obstruct airflow.
Common signs of adenoid hypertrophy include:
- Persistent mouth breathing
- Snoring or noisy breathing during sleep
- Nasal-sounding speech
- Frequent ear or sinus infections
Enlarged adenoids are a common reason children breathe through the mouth, especially during sleep.
Can Nasal Allergies Make My Child Breathe Through the Mouth?
Yes. Allergic rhinitis can cause chronic nasal inflammation, leading to blocked or stuffy noses.
Symptoms may include:
- Frequent sneezing
- Runny or blocked nose
- Itchy eyes or nose
- Snoring due to nasal congestion
When nasal passages are persistently blocked, children may switch to mouth breathing out of habit.
Does Chronic Sinus Congestion Affect Children Too?
Chronic sinus congestion or recurrent sinus infections can occur in children, particularly those with allergies or frequent upper respiratory infections.
This may lead to:
- Ongoing nasal blockage
- Thick nasal discharge
- Facial pressure or headaches (in older children)
- Snoring during sleep
Could a Deviated Septum Cause Mouth Breathing in Kids?
While less common in younger children, a deviated nasal septum, which may be congenital or due to injury, can narrow one side of the nasal airway.
This can contribute to:
- Uneven nasal airflow
- Mouth breathing
- Snoring, especially when lying down
An ENT examination can help assess nasal structure if this is suspected.
When Should Parents Be Concerned About Snoring?
Parents may consider seeking medical advice if their child:
- Snores most nights
- Breathes mainly through the mouth, even during the day
- Has restless or poor-quality sleep
- Shows daytime tiredness, irritability, or difficulty concentrating
- Experiences recurrent ear, nose, or throat infections
How Is Snoring and Mouth Breathing Evaluated by an ENT Specialist?
An ENT evaluation may include:
- A detailed medical and sleep history
- Examination of the nose, throat, and ears
- Assessment of adenoids and tonsils
- Further tests if needed, such as imaging or sleep studies
The goal is to identify the underlying cause and recommend appropriate management, which may include medical treatment or monitoring.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Is mouth breathing in children harmful?
Persistent mouth breathing may affect sleep quality, facial development, and oral health if left unaddressed. - Can children outgrow snoring?
Some children may improve as they grow, but ongoing snoring should be assessed to rule out treatable causes. - Are enlarged tonsils always the cause of snoring?
Not always. Adenoids, nasal allergies, and nasal blockage are also common contributors. - Should I wait before seeing an ENT specialist?
If symptoms are persistent or affecting sleep and daily functioning, an early assessment is reasonable. - Does snoring mean my child has sleep apnoea?
Not necessarily. While snoring can be a symptom, a proper evaluation is needed to determine this.
Concerned About Your Child’s Breathing During Sleep?
When Snoring and Mouth Breathing Persist, It May Be Time for an ENT Review
If your child snores regularly or relies on mouth breathing, a professional assessment can help clarify the cause and discuss suitable management options. Early evaluation may support better sleep, breathing, and overall wellbeing.
Book an appointment with our ENT clinic to have your child’s symptoms assessed.
