The breathing process for infants is similar to that of adults, but infants have physical differences that affect their respiratory process. Because infant airways are smaller than those of adults, obstruction occurs more frequently from mucous or swelling. An infant also breathes through her nose instead of her mouth, using the diaphragm, as the chest muscles are still developing.
Respiration
Infants breathe by taking in oxygenated air through the mouth and nose when the diaphragm in the abdomen drops. Air travels down the trachea and into one of two lungs. Each lung is filled with millions of sacs called alveoli, which assist with the exchange of oxygen molecules. The molecules cross the thin membranes of the alveoli into the bloodstream, where they are carried to parts of the body. Alternatively, carbon dioxide molecules are transferred from the bloodstream through the alveoli to leave the body when a baby exhales.
Tachypnea
Infants normally breathe faster than adults. A normal infant respiratory rate is between 40 and 60 breaths per minute. Breathing faster than a normal rate is known as tachypnea, a condition that puts infants at risk of decreased oxygenation of body tissues because of inadequate gas exchange.
Causes
Various conditions cause tachypnea in an infant; some may be quickly treated while others may be triggered by illness. Pneumonia is a lung infection caused by bacteria or viruses. According to Dr. Sears.com, as the body responds to infection, pneumonia occurs as pockets of mucous that form in the lungs, reducing a baby's oxygen intake. Transient tachypnea of the newborn, or TTN, occurs when some amniotic fluid remains in a baby's lungs after birth. During TTN, an infant may breathe rapidly and may make grunting sounds. Other causes of tachypnea include respiratory syncytial virus, croup, high temperature or anxiety.
Identification
If you think your baby may be breathing too rapidly, you can check his respiratory rate. Lay him down on his back on a flat surface or hold him in a comfortable position where you can see his breathing. Using a watch or clock, count the number of times he breathes for 60 seconds. Because babies may breathe at an irregular rate, counting for a full minute will give an accurate assessment of his respirations.
Considerations
Rapid breathing may be transient in infants or may be related to crying. When deciding to call the doctor, consider all of your baby's symptoms. Rapid breathing accompanied by a fever and cough should warrant a call to the physician for recommendations. Call your doctor right away if your baby is breathing rapidly, wheezing, or has a blue discoloration around her lips.
References
- Ask Dr. Sears.com: Pneumonia
- Kids Health: Transient Tachypnea of the Newborn
- Alegent Health: Breathing Problems
- "Nursing Care of Children: Principles and Practice;" J. W. Ashwill & S. C. Droske; 1997
