Question
During sleep, this often happens: the baby’s breathing stops for about 8 seconds, followed by 3-4 deep breaths, and then stops again for about 8 seconds. Sometimes, this is accompanied by sudden lifting of both hands or eye-opening movements. The heartbeat is normal. How can I prevent my baby from experiencing apnea?
Answer
Neonatal apnea is defined as the cessation of respiratory airflow for ≥20 seconds, accompanied or not by a decrease in heart rate or <15 seconds. If accompanied by a decrease in heart rate, it is considered a normal phenomenon in premature infants with apnea lasting between 10 to 15 seconds. Without a decrease in heart rate, it is referred to as periodic breathing. There are three types of neonatal apnea: (1) central – caused by central nervous system disorders resulting in no respiratory movement and airflow cessation; (2) obstructive – respiratory movement exists but there is no airflow in the respiratory tract; (3) mixed. Seek medical advice promptly to understand the cause of your baby’s apnea and take appropriate preventive measures.