is it normal for newborn to make rasping noises?

[gillybeanmum]

Our DS is 12 days old and makes the most horrible noises at the back of his throat as if there is lots of secretions/saliva there. Is that normal and what can we do to help the poor baby? He settles a bit when cuddled but sounds awful when put down to sleep. He doesn't seem congested in his nose so don't think he has a cold. Very worrying when he is on his back!

It could be some mucus still present - DD was very mucusy newborn but unusual to still be there after 12 days. I would take him to be checked over to see if they can help.

Second getting him checked. May well be nothing serious, of course. For example, I have a friend whose baby had a 'floppy larynx'. He grew out of it, but snored and grunted like no-body's business. It was harmless, btw.

A lot of newborns sound like little snuffly piglets when they're asleep. Its normal. It may help to elevate the head of the cot, but I think its just one of those things unless there are other problems.

Thanks for the replies guys, he is totally well otherwise and feeds well. He sounds exactly like a snuffly piglet sneezecakemum! Tried elevating the head of the cot and sitting up with him for a while after feeds and it seems better.

Sorry for the late reply - was searching for something and noticed your post. My youngest also made the strangest noises from around 10 days old and was very restless at night. GP examinations showed that her chest was clear but I was still concerned that something was not right. Eventually got a referral to an ENT Consultant and DD was diagnosed with laryingomalacia (floppy larynx) and associated reflux. She is so much happier now that she has the correct medication for her reflux. May be worth having a word with your GP and asking for a referral to a specialist.