Question
Why do newborns have a higher breathing rate and frequently cough during feeding, and what are the prevention methods?
Answer
The average breathing rate for newborns can reach 44 times per minute. Coughing during feeding is often seen in infants lacking vitamin A, which causes the pharyngeal epiglottis to become hyperkeratotic, leading to an inability to fully cover the trachea during swallowing, thus causing coughing. Measures to prevent coughing during feeding include scientific feeding practices, feeding the baby when they are fully awake, holding the baby in a semi-lateral position during feeding, and after feeding, letting them stand on their back and gently patting their back to help expel air. Moreover, timely supplementation of vitamin A is crucial, which can be achieved through oral fish liver oil drops.