Overview
Apnea is a term for cessation of breathing for more than 20 seconds. It is more common in premature babies but can also happen to full term babies. Immaturity or depression of the central respiratory drive to the muscles of respiration have been accepted as key factors in the pathogenesis of apnea of prematurity.Signs and Symptoms
Begins in first week of life or later, Periods of absent breathing for 20 seconds or more, Cessation of breathing for less than 20 seconds but accompanied with bradycardia (slow heart rate), Persistent low oxygen saturation more than 5 seconds or more, Cynosis (appears bluish)Common Causes
Prematurity, Bleeding or tissue damage in the brain, Respiratory disease, Infections, Immature neurological system, Hypoglycemia, HypothermiaRisk Factors
Preterm birth, Congenital abnormality, Infection during delivery process, Mother with gestational diabetesInvestigation Techniques
Full blood count, Blood culture, Serum electrolyte, Urinanalysis , Chest X-ray, MRI brain, ECG, EchocardiogramTreatment and Prevention
Monitor oxygen saturation and heart rate, Oxygen supplementation, Continuous positive airway pressure, Theophylline or caffeine citrate stimulates respiration
