Breathing difficulties in infants

Breathing difficulties in infants: Signs of respiratory insufficiency

Breathing difficulties, or shortness of breath, in an infant is a condition that always requires immediate assessment and, in most cases, emergency medical care. It is not simply rapid breathing, but a visible sign that the child is exerting significant effort for each inhalation and the body is not getting enough oxygen. Recognizing these signs can save a life.

Key signs of labored breathing

Parents should know the "red flags" that indicate respiratory insufficiency:

• Retraction of the chest wall areas. This is the most obvious sign. You may see the skin pulling in between the ribs, under the rib cage (under the sternum) or above the clavicles with each breath. This means the child is using accessory muscles to breathe.
• Flaring of the nostril wings. The infant’s nostrils widen with each inhalation — an instinctive attempt to increase airflow.
• "Head bobbing." The infant may rhythmically bob the head in time with breathing, trying to engage neck muscles.
• Grunting breathing (grunt). The infant produces a characteristic grunt at the end of each exhalation. This is an attempt to keep the airways open.
• Wheezing or whistling, audible from a distance.
• Cyanosis. Bluish discoloration of the skin, especially around the lips and on the fingertips.

Possible causes

Any disease affecting the airways can lead to respiratory insufficiency in infants:

• Bronchiolitis: The most common reason for hospitalization of children under one year.
• Croup: Inflammation of the larynx that causes labored inhalation.
• Pneumonia: Inflammation of the lungs.
• Aspiration of a foreign body.

If you notice any of these signs, do not wait, and call emergency services immediately. Until they arrive, keep the child in an upright position and ensure access to fresh, cool air.