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Q: My 17-day-old newborn has irregular breathing and a respiratory rate of 80 breaths per minute. Should we go to the hospital?

  • Myeongchan Kim
  • Mar 3
  • 2 min read

This post is a dramatization of a question and answer session experienced by our actual medical reviewers. Please note that this content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.



Question:

I have a 17-day-old newborn baby. Usually, my baby's breathing seems fine, but occasionally it suddenly gets very fast, goes back to normal, and then gets fast again. Just now, right after finishing a bottle of formula, the breathing seemed really fast. I measured it, and it was 80 breaths per minute. Should I take my baby to the hospital?


Answer:

I understand you must be very worried about your 17-day-old newborn's breathing pattern.


Evaluating the symptoms you mentioned:

• 80 breaths per minute is significantly outside the normal range for newborns (which is 35-55 breaths per minute).

• The breathing pattern fluctuates between fast and normal.

• Feeding was completed normally.


⚠️ Please check the following immediately:

1. Measure the respiratory rate again right at this moment (count the rise and fall of the baby's belly for one full minute).

2. Check if the baby's face looks pale or is turning blue.

3. Observe if the nostrils are flaring or if the skin between/under the ribs is sinking in (chest retractions).

4. Listen for any grunting or abnormal rattling sounds.


→ Go to the Emergency Room if: The respiratory rate is consistently over 60 breaths per minute, there are changes in facial skin color, or the baby refuses to feed.

→ Visit the pediatrician for a same-day appointment if: The irregular breathing pattern repeats or the baby seems different from their usual self.


For a newborn, even a small change can be significant, so it is safest to have them checked by a medical professional. Extra caution is especially needed for infants under 28 days of age.



For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.








 
 
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