Apnea

Signs and Symptoms
Diagnosis
Treatment

Signs and Symptoms

A baby experiencing apnea will:

• Suddenly stop breathing for more than 15 to 20 seconds
• Become pale or bluish around the mouth and face during a period of apnea
• Start breathing again on their own, or need help to restart breathing

Babies also may experience bradycardia, a condition in which a baby's heart rate drops to below 80 beats per minute. This usually occurs after a period of apnea.

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Children's Hospital.
Last updated May 8, 2007