Miya Pearson
Newborns typically breathe faster than adults, at a rate of 40 to 60 breaths per minute. While sleeping, their breathing rate may slow down to 20 to 30 breaths per minute. In some cases, newborns may experience periodic breathing, where their breathing stops for 5 to 10 seconds and then resumes more rapidly at 40 to 60 breaths per minute. Although newborns tend to breathe faster, it's important to familiarize yourself with your baby's typical breathing pattern to identify any potential issues. Irregular breathing or respiratory distress can be concerning and may require immediate medical attention.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Normal breathing rate | 40-60 breaths per minute |
| Slowed breathing rate while sleeping | 20-30 breaths per minute |
| Periodic breathing | Breathing fast, then slowing down for 5-10 seconds, then breathing rapidly (40-60 breaths per minute) for 10-15 seconds |
| Signs of respiratory distress | Changes in breathing rate or pattern, using other muscles and parts of the chest to breathe, or changes in colour |
| Signs of respiratory problems | More than 60 breaths per minute, wheezing, whistling, grunting, skin/lip discolouration, retractions by windpipe or belly |
| Signs of illness | Irritability, decreased appetite, difficulty sleeping, sneezing, coughing, fever |
| Safe sleeping position | Flat on their backs |
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What You'll Learn
Newborns breathe faster than adults
Newborns typically breathe faster than adults, with normal newborn breathing patterns ranging from 40 to 60 breaths per minute. This rapid breathing is not necessarily a cause for concern, as it is common for newborns to breathe faster than older individuals. However, it is important to familiarize yourself with your newborn's typical breathing pattern so that you can identify any deviations or signs of respiratory distress.
Newborns may experience periodic breathing, where their breathing stops for about 5 to 10 seconds and then resumes rapidly at a rate of 40 to 60 breaths per minute for 10 to 15 seconds. During sleep, their breathing may slow down to 20 or 30 breaths per minute. It is recommended that newborns be put to sleep on their backs to ensure optimal breathing support.
Transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN) is a condition that can cause respiratory distress in newborns, particularly those born prematurely. TTN occurs when there is a delay in the baby's ability to clear fluid from their lungs after birth, making it difficult for them to obtain sufficient oxygen. This condition typically resolves within three days, but medical attention may be required, including medication, oxygen therapy, or a stay in a neonatal intensive care unit.
If you have concerns about your newborn's breathing, it is crucial to monitor them closely and seek medical advice if necessary. Observe your newborn's behavior and take note of any unusual patterns or symptoms, such as wheezing, whistling, or grunting while breathing, as well as any skin or lip discoloration. In case of emergency, call 911 or your local emergency services, or take your newborn to the nearest emergency room.
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Signs of breathing problems
Newborns typically breathe faster than adults, at a rate of 40-60 breaths per minute. While this is normal, any signs of irregular breathing can be a cause for concern. It is important to familiarize yourself with your newborn's typical breathing pattern so that you can identify any changes. Some newborns have periodic breathing, which is characterized by breathing fast and then slowing down for about 5 to 10 seconds. They shouldn't pause for more than 10 seconds between breaths, even when resting. If you notice any of these signs, it may be best to contact a doctor or visit an immediate care facility or emergency room, depending on the severity.
There are several newborn breathing conditions that can develop in the womb, during birth, or shortly after birth. One such condition is meconium aspiration, which occurs when meconium, the first stool of a fetus, mixes with amniotic fluid and is inhaled by the newborn. This can block the newborn's air passages and cause lung inflammation, leading to breathing problems. In some cases, a tube may be placed into the windpipe to suction meconium, and the newborn may require breathing assistance with a machine.
Another breathing condition that can affect newborns is pneumothorax, which is a rupture of the air sacs in the lung. When a newborn takes their first breath, the pressure can cause some of the air sacs to tear, allowing air to escape into the space between the lung and ribs. This can compress the lung and prevent it from inflating. Newborns with pneumothorax may experience rapid breathing and other symptoms similar to those of transient tachypnea (TTN).
Other newborn breathing conditions include persistent pulmonary hypertension, pneumonia, respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), and apnea. Premature birth is a significant risk factor for developing breathing conditions, as the lungs may not be fully developed. Infections caused by bacteria or viruses can also lead to pneumonia or sepsis. It is important to seek medical attention if you notice any signs of breathing problems in your newborn, as early treatment can greatly improve their condition.
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When to seek medical attention
Newborns typically breathe faster than adults, and their breathing patterns may vary. It is important to familiarize yourself with your newborn's typical breathing pattern so that you can identify any changes and act quickly if they are having trouble breathing. Here are some guidelines on when to seek medical attention:
- Irregular breathing: If your newborn is experiencing irregular breathing, such as persistent coughing or choking, especially while feeding, it could indicate a breathing or digestion problem that requires medical attention.
- Difficulty breathing: If your newborn is showing signs of respiratory distress, such as rapid or irregular breathing, flaring nostrils, or retracting their chest, seek immediate medical attention.
- Grunting: Grunting is a sign that your baby is trying to keep air in their lungs and increase oxygen levels. This may be accompanied by moaning or sighing while exhaling.
- Blue discoloration: Cyanosis, a generalized blue coloring of the skin or lips, can indicate that your baby is not getting enough oxygen. This could be a sign of heart defects or respiratory problems.
- Snoring: While snoring is often due to mucus in the nostrils, in rare cases, it can indicate a chronic condition such as sleep apnea or enlarged tonsils.
- Stridor: A constant, high-pitched sound when breathing indicates an airway obstruction and should be evaluated by a doctor.
- Breathing pauses: If your newborn's breathing stops for more than 10 seconds or they pause for more than 10 seconds between breaths, seek medical attention.
- Cold symptoms: If your newborn exhibits cold symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, or difficulty breathing, and especially if they have a fever, decreased appetite, or irritability, consult a doctor.
- Respiratory infection: If your newborn has a respiratory infection and isn't sleeping well, ask your doctor for safe ways to clear congestion.
- Behavioral changes: If your newborn is acting differently than usual, such as being more irritable or less active, monitor them for a few hours and contact a doctor if you are concerned.
- Signs of discomfort: If your baby is showing signs of discomfort, such as retractions by their windpipe or belly, or any other unusual behavior, seek medical advice.
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Learning your newborn's typical breathing pattern
Newborns typically breathe faster than adults, at a rate of about 40 to 60 breaths per minute. This may slow to 20 or 30 breaths per minute while they are sleeping. Some newborns experience periodic breathing, where they breathe rapidly for 5 to 10 seconds, then slow down to around 40 to 60 breaths per minute for 10 to 15 seconds.
- Observe your newborn's breathing when they are healthy and relaxed. This will help you establish a baseline for what is normal for your baby.
- Take note of any unusual noises your baby makes when they breathe. While these are often not a cause for concern, learning what is typical for your baby will help you identify any changes.
- Pay attention to your baby's sleep position. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends putting babies to sleep flat on their backs for the best breathing support.
- Be aware of any risk factors that may increase the chance of breathing problems, such as premature birth or delivery via cesarean section.
- If you have any concerns about your newborn's breathing, monitor them over a few hours and take a video of any worrisome behaviour to show a doctor.
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What to do if your newborn is sick
Newborns typically breathe faster than adults, and their breathing patterns can vary. When sleeping, their breathing may slow down to 20–30 breaths per minute. In periodic breathing, a newborn's breathing may stop for 5–10 seconds and then speed up to 40–60 breaths per minute for 10–15 seconds. While this is normal, you should be vigilant about any signs of distress or discomfort. Familiarise yourself with your newborn's typical breathing pattern so you can quickly identify any changes.
If your newborn is sick, here are some things you can do:
- Monitor their breathing: If you're concerned about your newborn's breathing, observe them over a few hours. This will help you determine if it's a mild illness or something more serious. Take a video of any worrying behaviour to show a doctor.
- Contact a doctor or paediatrician: If your newborn's condition doesn't improve or worsens, seek medical advice. You can communicate with a healthcare professional online, through an app, or by calling a helpline. In a medical emergency, call your local emergency services or take your newborn to the nearest emergency room.
- Maintain a safe sleeping position: The safest sleeping position for a newborn is flat on their back. This position provides the best breathing support, even though it may be challenging to settle a sick baby in this position.
- Manage congestion: Congestion can cause breathing difficulties. Using a humidifier in your newborn's room or taking them into a steamy bathroom can help loosen nose secretions. You can also use a rubber bulb syringe to suction your baby's nose and keep it clear.
- Regulate body temperature: Give your newborn a lukewarm bath to help regulate their body temperature if they have a fever.
- Offer plenty of fluids: Liquids are important to prevent dehydration. Continue offering breast milk or formula as usual. Breast milk provides extra protection against cold-causing germs.
- Medicate with caution: Do not give medicine to a baby without consulting a healthcare professional. If your baby is uncomfortable due to fever or pain, you may consider infant acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin). Carefully follow the dosing guidelines and product instructions. For children younger than three months, consult a doctor before giving acetaminophen, and do not give ibuprofen to children under six months or those who are vomiting or dehydrated.
- Keep a record of symptoms: If you need to see a healthcare professional, provide them with detailed information about your newborn's symptoms, including when they began and any other relevant details, such as exposure to sick individuals or attendance at daycare.
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Frequently asked questions
Newborns typically breathe faster than adults, with a normal breathing rate of 40 to 60 breaths per minute. When sleeping, this may slow to 20 or 30 breaths per minute. A newborn's breathing pattern may be different, with periodic breathing characterised by breathing fast and then slowing down for about 5 to 10 seconds. If you are concerned about your newborn's breathing, monitor them over a few hours and contact a doctor if you notice any signs of distress or irregular breathing.
Signs of respiratory distress include changes in a baby's breathing rate or pattern, using other muscles and parts of the chest to breathe, or changes in skin colour. Specifically, look out for flaring nostrils, retracting of the chest, grunting, moaning or sighing, and a blue colour on the skin or lips. If your newborn is ill and is grunting while breathing, visit a doctor immediately.
If your newborn has a respiratory infection and isn't sleeping well, ask your doctor about safe ways to help clear congestion. Over-the-counter saline drops can help loosen thick mucus. Clothe your baby in breathable fabrics, adding only one extra layer compared to what an adult would wear. Avoid sleep positioners and wedges, as these are not recommended due to the risk of SIDS.
