Why Do Newborns Blow Bubbles?
May 05, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Weiling
Introduction
One reason newborns produce oral bubbles is that their organs and central nervous system are still developing, and their oral swallowing function is not yet fully mature. Another possible cause is neonatal pneumonia, which may present with excessive salivation. Since all organ systems in newborns are still immature, early signs of illness may be subtle or nonspecific.
It is quite common for newborns to blow bubbles with their mouths, which is generally a normal physiological phenomenon. This occurs because newborns’ oral swallowing function is still immature. In fact, their organs and central nervous system are still developing, making it difficult for them to precisely control certain behaviors—such as drooling—so blowing bubbles is also considered normal. Typically, infants produce relatively large amounts of saliva and enjoy blowing bubbles, often simply as playful behavior; in some cases, increased salivation may be related to teething—all of which are normal occurrences.
On the other hand, frequent spitting or drooling can sometimes indicate neonatal pneumonia. Because all organ systems in newborns are not yet fully developed, early signs of illness may be subtle or atypical. During neonatal pneumonia, pulmonary function declines, which may manifest as bubble-blowing. To assess for possible pneumonia, count the infant’s respiratory rate while they are sleeping: if it exceeds 40 breaths per minute, pneumonia should be suspected, and prompt medical evaluation is recommended.
