What to Do if Your Baby Has Shortness of Breath During Sleep

Causes of Shortness of Breath During Sleep in Infants

Shortness of breath during sleep, also known as dyspnea, is a common problem in infants. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

Respiratory infections, such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and croup

Congenital heart defects

Neuromuscular disorders, such as spinal muscular atrophy and Prader-Willi syndrome

Prematurity

Obesity

Exposure to secondhand smoke

Allergies

Anaphylaxis

Symptoms of Shortness of Breath During Sleep in Infants

The symptoms of shortness of breath during sleep in infants can vary depending on the underlying cause. However, some common symptoms include:

Rapid breathing

Difficulty breathing

Noisy breathing

Wheezing

Coughing

Snoring

Cyanosis (bluish tint to the skin, lips, or nail beds)

Lethargy

Poor feeding

Irritability

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you notice any of the symptoms of shortness of breath during sleep in your infant, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. This is especially important if your infant is:

Less than 12 weeks old

Has a history of heart or lung problems

Is having difficulty breathing or is cyanotic

Is not improving with home care

Diagnosis of Shortness of Breath During Sleep in Infants

The diagnosis of shortness of breath during sleep in infants will depend on the underlying cause. Your doctor will likely perform a physical examination and ask you about your infant's symptoms and medical history. He or she may also order one or more of the following tests:

Chest X-ray

Echocardiogram

Electrocardiogram (ECG)

Polysomnography (sleep study)

Treatment of Shortness of Breath During Sleep in Infants

The treatment of shortness of breath during sleep in infants will depend on the underlying cause. Treatment may include:

Medications, such as bronchodilators, steroids, and antibiotics

Oxygen therapy

Surgery

Lifestyle changes, such as avoiding secondhand smoke and allergens

Prevention of Shortness of Breath During Sleep in Infants

There are a few things you can do to help prevent shortness of breath during sleep in your infant:

Keep your infant up-to-date on vaccinations.

Avoid exposing your infant to secondhand smoke.

Make sure your infant's sleeping environment is free of allergens.

If your infant is overweight or obese, talk to your doctor about a healthy weight loss plan.

What to Do if Your Baby Has Shortness of Breath During Sleep

If you notice that your baby is having shortness of breath during sleep, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. This is especially important if your baby is:

Less than 12 weeks old

Has a history of heart or lung problems

Is having difficulty breathing or is cyanotic

Is not improving with home care

Your doctor will perform a physical examination and ask you about your baby's symptoms and medical history. He or she may also order one or more tests to diagnose the underlying cause of the shortness of breath. Treatment will depend on the underlying cause and may include medications, oxygen therapy, surgery, or lifestyle changes.

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