A newborn baby must start breathing within a few minutes after birth in order to survive. A baby that does not breathe or has difficulty breathing will need immediate medical intervention.
Factors Affecting Breathing at Birth
Several factors can affect a baby’s ability to breathe at birth, including:
Meconium: Meconium is a dark, sticky substance made up of cells, fluid, and debris that is present in the intestines of a fetus. If a baby passes meconium before or during labor, it can enter the lungs and cause breathing problems.
Umbilical Cord Compression: If the umbilical cord becomes compressed or wrapped around the baby during labor, it can interfere with the baby’s ability to breathe.
Prematurity: Babies born prematurely have not fully developed their lungs, which can make it more difficult for them to breathe on their own.
Infection: An infection in the mother during labor can be passed to the baby, which can cause breathing problems.
Diagnosing Respiratory Problems in Newborns
If a newborn is having difficulty breathing, a doctor may use a variety of tests to diagnose the problem. These tests may include:
Pulse Oximetry: This test measures the oxygen level in a baby’s blood. Low oxygen levels can be a sign of a respiratory problem.
Chest X-ray: This test can help diagnose conditions such as pneumonia or fluid in the lungs.
Arterial Blood Gas: This test measures the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in a baby’s blood. Abnormal levels can indicate a respiratory problem.
Treatment for Respiratory Problems in Newborns
Treatment for respiratory problems in newborns depends on the cause of the problem but may include:
Oxygen Therapy: Oxygen therapy can be used to increase the oxygen levels in a baby’s blood, which can help improve breathing.
Medication: Medication may be used to treat infections or other conditions that may be causing the respiratory problem.
Ventilator Support: In some cases, a baby may need help from a ventilator to help them breathe.
Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be needed to treat a respiratory problem.
It is important to seek medical attention immediately if a baby is having difficulty breathing. With prompt treatment, most newborns with respiratory problems can make a full recovery.