However, apnea can be caused or increased by many problems including infection, low blood sugar, patent ductus arteriosus, seizures, high or low body temperature, brain injury or insufficient oxygen. Premature babies have immature respiratory centers in the brain. Preemies normally have bursts of big breaths followed by periods of shallow breathing or pauses. Apnea is most common when the baby is sleeping. The time course is variable.
Several treatments are possible.
Medications that stimulate breathing. Commonly used drugs include theophylline, aminophylline, or caffeine. CPAP or continuous positive airway pressure. This is air or oxygen delivered under pressure through little tubes into the baby's nose. If the apnea is severe, the baby may need a few breaths from the ventilator every minute.