What Causes Shortness of Breath in Babies?

Your baby can't tell you yet where it hurts or what is bothering him, which makes monitoring the way the baby acts and feels your job. Shortness of breath in babies shouldn't be taken lightly. It could be a sign of a mild illness or a serious disease. Observe any other symptoms your baby develops.

  1. Sinus Infection

    • A bacterial infection of the sinuses may cause shortness of breath accompanied by a cough and a runny nose. Take the baby to see a doctor if the symptoms don't subside in a few days. If your baby also develops a fever, see the doctor right away.

    Epiglottitis

    • According to Health Central, epiglottitis is a serious condition that causes the flap of tissue above the windpipe, the epiglottis, to swell. Epiglottitis is dangerous because it can worsen in a matter of hours, and the baby will not be able to breathe. If your baby has this condition, she'll have shortness of breath accompanied by a fever, a sudden sore throat and difficulty swallowing. Take your baby to the pediatrician or the emergency room immediately if notice any of these symptoms.

    Allergies

    • An allergy is a response of the immune system to a particular substance. In a baby, an allergy is usually hereditary. Your baby may have an allergy if he has shortness of breath accompanied by an itchy, blocked or runny nose; a sore throat; rashes or diarrhea. Take your baby to the pediatrician for assessment and treatment.

    Croup

    • Croup is common, especially in the winter. It is the swelling of the larynx and trachea, usually caused by a virus. Your baby will develop a deep, hoarse cough, sounding almost like a barking animal. If your baby has croup, take her to the pediatrician or emergency room for medicine and treatment.

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