Top 7 Causes for Respiratory Distress in Babies

Respiratory distress can cause several symptoms in babies including difficulty in breathing and the bluish appearance of the skin. It is important to identify the cause of respiratory distress and treat it immediately to prevent serious consequences. Here are 7 causes of respiratory distress in babies.

7.Aspiration of food

Improper position of the baby while breastfeeding or bottle-feeding may lead to the aspiration of milk into the respiratory passages causing difficulty in breathing. [1]It can be easily avoided by making sure the baby is awake and sufficiently propped up while feeding.

6.Respiratory distress syndrome

Children borne with respiratory distress syndrome may develop recurring attacks of breathlessness. It is often accompanied by excessive crying, bouts of cough, and bluish appearance of the skin. [2]

5.Asthma

Some babies may develop an allergic reaction to dust, pollen, or even a compound present in baby wipes due to which they can develop breathing difficulties. The allergic response resulting in breathing problems is called asthma. It may resolve when the child reaches around 5 years of age or persist until adulthood. [3]

4.Pneumonia

Babies who are born prematurely may develop respiratory distress due to pneumonia. It occurs due to the improperly developed lungs and weak immunity causing an increased risk of bacterial and viral infections. [4]

3.Meconium aspiration

Meconium is the earliest stool produced by an infant usually in the womb. Accidental inhalation of meconium after birth may cause difficulty in breathing.Meconium aspiration is more common in post-term and full-term babies than in premature babies. [5]

2.Bronchopulmonary dysplasia

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia occurs due to premature lung development as a result of which the body does not receive an adequate amount of oxygen. This can cause breathing difficulties and a bluish appearance of the skin. [6]

1.Underweight babies

Respiratory distress is more common in underweight babies. It may occur due to poor maternal nutritional or metabolic dysfunctions in the mother such as diabetes. [7]

Conclusion

Respiratory syndrome in babies is usually a medical emergency. It is important to seek immediate treatment in case your baby develops a breathing difficulty to prevent life-threatening complications.