Periodic apnea of the newborn is a common breathing disorder characterized by brief episodes of breathing cessation. The term is pronounced /pɪərɪˈɑːdɪk ˈæpniə əv ðə ˈnjuːbɔːrn/ and the spelling is based on the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first syllable is pronounced as 'pear-uh', the second syllable as 'uh', and the third syllable as 'dik'. The letter 'a' in 'apnea' is pronounced as 'æ', while the letter 'e' in 'periodic' is pronounced as 'ɪ'. The letter 'w' in 'newborn' is silent.
Periodic apnea of the newborn, also known as periodic breathing or periodic spells, refers to a temporary cessation of breathing that occurs intermittently in newborn infants. This condition is characterized by short episodes during which the infant doesn't breathe for a few seconds, followed by a sudden resumption of normal breathing. It is a normal and common occurrence in premature and term infants, typically peaking during the first week after birth and gradually resolving within a few months.
Periodic apnea of the newborn is believed to be caused by an immature respiratory control system in the brain, which leads to brief pauses in breathing. These episodes are often accompanied by a bluish discoloration of the skin, known as cyanosis, due to decreased oxygen levels in the blood. However, it is important to note that periodic apnea does not cause harm to the infant and is considered a benign physiological process.
Parents and caregivers are advised to remain calm during episodes of periodic apnea and avoid unnecessary stimulation, which may disrupt the infant's breathing patterns. It is crucial to provide a safe sleeping environment to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). If the episodes of apnea become prolonged or are associated with alarming symptoms like choking or turning pale, it is recommended to seek medical attention.
In summary, periodic apnea of the newborn is a temporary interruption of breathing that occurs in newborn infants, particularly common in premature babies. It is a benign condition that typically resolves naturally without any intervention.