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What is Apnea, and how do you treat it?
What is Apnea, and how do you treat it?“Apnea is basically defined as a baby who stops breathing. Most babies will actually outgrow apnea ofprematurity when they reach about 35 weeks of gestation. So, it's very common for babies under 35 weeks tooccasionally have apnea of prematurity. And the treatment for apnea of prematurity currently is a combinationof caffeine, as well as monitoring an occasional tactile stimulation that the nurses will provide.”This program is for informational purposes only. Publisher disclaims all guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness,or suitability of this video for medical decision making. For all health related issues please contact your healthcare provider.PRG57560A EN WhatIsApneaAndHowDoYouTreatIt.pdf© The Wellness NetworkPage 1 of 1
Babies who are born too early (premature) often have health problems, such as apnea. Apnea is when a baby stops breathing for a bit of time (more than 15 seconds). The baby may also have a slowed heart rate and a drop in oxygen in the blood.
Apnea is a term that means breathing has stopped for more than 20 seconds. It can happen in full-term babies, but it is more common in premature babies. The more premature the baby, the greater the chances that apnea will occur.
When a baby is born premature, the part of the brain that controls breathing and heart rate may not be fully developed. This may lead to spells where breathing stops for up to 15 to 20 seconds, then starts again.
Sleep apnea (also called obstructive apnea) is a condition where there are long pauses between breaths during sleep. Learn more about how to care for your child and when they should see a health care provider.