What to do if a baby's respiratory function is underdeveloped

Generally, underdeveloped respiratory function in infants may be caused by factors such as young age, poor environmental air quality, upper respiratory tract infections, adenoid hypertrophy, or bronchopneumonia. It is recommended to seek timely medical consultation to identify the underlying cause and, under a doctor's guidance, improve the condition through general treatments, medications, and other methods. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Prematurity: After birth, an infant's lungs and respiratory organs may not be fully developed, and the respiratory center's regulatory capacity may be weak, leading to incomplete respiratory function. In daily care, maintain indoor temperature between 22-25°C and humidity between 50%-60% to avoid excessive dryness or cold, which could irritate the respiratory tract.

2. Poor air quality: Polluted indoor air containing smoke or dust can irritate the infant's delicate respiratory tract and worsen impaired respiratory function. Ventilate the room 2-3 times daily for 30 minutes each time to ensure fresh air. Avoid smoking near the baby and keep the infant away from irritants such as dust and cooking fumes.

3. Upper respiratory tract infection: Viral or bacterial infections affecting the nasal passages and throat can cause mucosal congestion and swelling, blocking the airway and impairing respiratory function. For viral infections, medications such as pediatric paracetamol and chlorpheniramine granules, pediatric cold relief syrup, or ribavirin granules may be used under medical guidance to alleviate symptoms. Bacterial infections require antibiotics such as pediatric amoxicillin granules, cefaclor for oral suspension, or azithromycin for oral suspension to treat the infection.

4. Adenoid hypertrophy: Excessive adenoid growth can block the posterior nasal passages and eustachian tubes, causing nasal congestion and mouth breathing in infants, increasing the burden on respiratory function. Mild symptoms can be relieved with medications such as mometasone furoate nasal spray, montelukast sodium chewable tablets, or isotonic seawater nasal spray, as directed by a physician.

5. Bronchopneumonia: Inflammation in the lungs can reduce alveolar ventilation function, leading to rapid or difficult breathing and worsening respiratory insufficiency. Under a doctor's guidance, antibiotics such as ceftriaxone sodium for injection or penicillin sodium for injection may be required to treat the infection.

In daily life, closely monitor the infant's respiratory rate and complexion. If abnormalities such as rapid breathing or cyanosis of the lips occur, seek immediate medical attention. Avoid taking the infant to crowded places to reduce the risk of infection. Feed according to the infant's needs to ensure adequate nutrition and promote the maturation of the respiratory system.