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Apnea of prematurity
Alternative Names:
Apnea - newborns; AOP; As and Bs; Blue spell - newborns; Dusky spell - newborns; Spell - newborns
Definition:
Newborns, especially premies, often have a breathing pattern that is immature and irregular. These babies often stop breathing for short periods, which is called apnea. Text Continues Below
Breathing is also sometimes described as “periodic,” with times of normal breathing that progress to very shallow breathing. When there is very shallow or no breathing (apnea), the baby may also experience a drop in the heart rate. This heart rate drop is called bradycardia. Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
In newborns, especially those born prematurely, several things contribute to apnea -- including immaturity of the brain and weakness of the muscles that keep the airway open. At times, additional stresses in a sick or premature baby may worsen apnea. These include infection, heart or lung problems, low blood count (anemia), low oxygen levels, temperature problems, feeding problems, and over stimulation.
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