What causes newborns to wheeze and huff and puff?



Neonatal wheezing can be seen in physiological phenomena, pathological conditions (such as respiratory tract infections), and need to be analyzed on a case-by-case basis.

1. Physiological phenomenon: newborn nasal cavity is short, the nasal mucosa is rich in blood vessels, and there is no nasal hair, susceptible to the influence of external factors, such as indoor ambient temperature is low or less wrapped, the baby can appear nasal congestion, manifested as “gasping thick huffing and puffing”.

2. Pathological phenomena

(1) respiratory infections: such as neonatal infectious pneumonia, may appear flaring nose, shortness of breath and other manifestations, parents often described as “gasping for air thick huffing and puffing”, may be accompanied by spitting, moaning, etc., early lung auscultation signs are not obvious, the course of the disease can gradually appear in the lungs, fine humid rales, etc., and need to be actively consulted for treatment.

(2) Congenital laryngeal stridor: also known as laryngeal cartilage chondromalacia, there may be intermittent laryngeal stridor, which is often described by parents as the above phenomenon, accompanied by phlegm in the throat, which is more pronounced after activities or when breastfeeding. Daily care and feeding should be strengthened, and vitamin D and calcium supplements should be taken under the supervision of a physician. As the respiratory system matures, the above symptoms may gradually improve.

It is recommended to consult a specialist for evaluation and clarification of the cause if necessary.