• 6 days ago

Is Rapid Breathing in Newborns Normal? When to Worry

What Is Normal Breathing in Newborns?

  • Newborns breathe 30–60 times per minute
  • Breathing is often shallow, rapid, and irregular
  • Brief pauses in breathing (5–10 seconds) can be normal
  • Belly movement is prominent due to diaphragm-driven breathing

This natural breathing pattern can look concerning to new parents but is usually physiological.

When Is Fast Breathing Considered Normal?

Increased breathing rate is normal in these situations:

  • After crying, feeding, or waking up
  • During gas or mild discomfort
  • In a warm environment (e.g., after a bath or in hot weather)
  • For short periods (less than 1–2 minutes)

When Is Rapid Breathing a Medical Concern?

Call your doctor or seek emergency care if you notice:

Symptom

Description

More than 60 breaths per minute

Continuous, not just after activity

Chest retractions

Skin pulls in between or under the ribs while breathing

Nasal flaring

Nostrils widen with each breath

Blue or purple tint (cyanosis)

Around lips, tongue, or fingernails

Feeding difficulty

Baby gets tired or breathless while nursing

Grunting

A “ugh” sound at the end of each breath

Limpness or unresponsiveness

Pale skin, reduced activity or alertness

These signs may indicate respiratory distress syndrome, pneumonia, congenital heart disease, or metabolic disorders.

Possible Causes of Rapid Breathing in Newborns

Normal newborn transition

  • In the first days, babies adjust to breathing outside the womb

Transient Tachypnea of the Newborn (TTN)

  • Especially in C-section babies, due to retained lung fluid
  • Typically resolves in 24–72 hours

Respiratory Infections

  • RSV, flu, or bacterial pneumonia may cause rapid breathing and fever

Congenital Heart Defects

  • Heart conditions may present with shortness of breath, sweating, and poor feeding

Metabolic or Neurological Issues

  • Conditions like hypoglycemia, acidosis, or brain disorders can alter breathing patterns

What to Do (and Not Do) at Home

What You Can Do:

  • Keep the room well-ventilated at 20–22°C (68–72°F)
  • Adjust baby’s position—some may breathe better on a slight incline (always under supervision)
  • Loosen tight clothing or swaddles
  • Observe feeding: If baby struggles to nurse or breathes rapidly during feeds, note it

Avoid:

  • Trying to diagnose from the internet
  • Using nasal drops, steam, or medications without doctor approval
  • Assuming “it’ll pass” if symptoms persist or worsen

Breathing problems in newborns can escalate quickly—early medical attention can be lifesaving.