Question
A 20-day-old newborn often breathes fast and slow and gets red in the face, but their heartbeat is normal. They eat, sleep, defecate, and urinate without any abnormalities. What could be the reason for this? Is it dangerous?
Answer
Under normal circumstances, newborns have a higher breathing rate due to their smaller lung capacity and tidal volume, and their respiratory system does not fully mature until around eight years old. Generally speaking, a newborn’s breathing rate is about 40 times per minute, which gradually decreases as they grow older. Based on the information you provided, your baby is within the normal range and there is no need to worry.