Apnea is any disruption or pause in the normal rhythm of breathing. Apnea associated with premature births is among the most commonly occurring conditions in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Infections, seizures, improper body temperature or blood sugar, patent ductus arteriosus, brain injury or developmental problems can cause apnea. It can be treated with medications. When caused by immaturity of the portion of the brain that regulates breathing, apnea often resolves itself over time.

Asphyxia is suffocation — a life-threatening lack of sufficient oxygen to breathe as a result of obstruction, malformation or disease in the lungs or other parts of the respiratory system. It can occur before birth, during delivery, or following birth, for a variety of reasons. It requires immediate corrective action.

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is a serious condition characterized by scarring of the lungs. It can occur in prematurely delivered infants who required treatments to help them breathe. BPD can be treated with steroid or diuretic medications, along with a ventilator or perhaps oxygen therapy. Treatment may require extended stays in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Jaundice, medically known as hyperbilirubinemia, is the result of excessive levels of a substance called bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin, which is discharged as a function of blood cells, is normally processed by the liver. But if the liver is unable to process all the bilirubin present in the bloodstream, the material builds up, producing the condition called jaundice. Newborns with jaundice tend to be lethargic, and their skin or eyes may appear yellowish. Mild cases can be treated with placing the baby under a special light that neutralizes the jaundiced condition. Some babies may require a blood transfusion to reduce their bilirubin concentration.

Patent ductus arteriosus is a condition caused by the failure of a blood vessel called the ductus arteriosus to close after birth. Blood bypasses the lungs of babies in the womb by means of the ductus arteriosus, but that “shortcut” is supposed to close shortly after birth. If it remains open or reopens after birth, it can cause respiratory problems. Patent ductus arteriosus is most closely associated with premature deliveries. While it can sometimes be corrected with medication, surgery may be required.

Respiratory distress syndrome is breathing difficulty caused by an insufficiency of surfactant, a chemical that helps keep the passageways of the lungs open. The immature lungs of prematurely delivered babies can be susceptible to the condition. Fortunately, surfactant can be added through a breathing tube, and a ventilator can also help babies until they are able to breathe satisfactorily on their own.