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Premature Baby With Breathing Problems: What to Know

ByDr. Vidhi Dhamecha
Updated: 25 Sept 2026, 5:00 pm

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia is a long-term lung condition that may develop in some babies born very early. In this guide, we explain what BPD means, why some premature babies develop it, how doctors identify it, and what care may be needed.

Pregatips
A baby’s first breaths mark an important change as the lungs begin working outside the womb. For some premature newborns, breathing can remain difficult because their lungs have not completed their development. They may need extra medical support in the NICU while they grow stronger.
In this article:
Bronchopulmonary dysplasia is one of the conditions doctors may diagnose during this period. Learning about BPD can help parents understand their baby’s treatment, follow-up needs and progress without feeling overwhelmed by medical terminology.

We spoke with Dr Abhishek Chopra, Senior Consultant – Neonatologist and Paediatrician at Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Punjabi Bagh, New Delhi, to understand BPD, its causes, treatment and recovery in premature babies.

What Is Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia?

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is a long-term lung condition that can affect some premature babies. It means the lungs need more time and support to work properly after birth.

BPD can make it harder for a baby to get enough oxygen. Some babies may need extra oxygen or breathing support for weeks or months while their lungs continue to mature. The condition can be mild or more severe, and the level of support needed varies from baby to baby.


Why Does BPD Develop?

BPD usually develops when very immature lungs are exposed to several challenges after birth. Babies born extremely early are at the highest risk because their lungs have had less time to develop.

Factors that can increase the risk include:

  • Very premature birth
  • Low birth weight
  • Prolonged oxygen therapy
  • Mechanical ventilation
  • Lung inflammation or infection
  • Respiratory problems soon after birth

What Are the Signs of BPD?

Signs of bronchopulmonary dysplasia can differ from baby to baby.

Common signs may include:

  • Fast or difficult breathing
  • Continued need for oxygen
  • Wheezing or noisy breathing
  • Skin pulling in around the ribs while breathing
  • Pauses in breathing
  • Feeding difficulties
  • Slow weight gain

How Is BPD Diagnosed?

There is no single test for BPD. Doctors usually look at several factors, including:

  • Baby’s gestational age: How early the baby was born.
  • Breathing support: Whether the baby needs oxygen, CPAP or a ventilator.
  • Oxygen levels: Monitored using a small sensor placed on the baby’s skin.
  • Chest X-ray: May be done to check the appearance of the lungs.
  • Progress over time: Doctors assess how the baby’s breathing and oxygen needs change as the lungs mature.
Together, these findings help the medical team determine whether a baby has BPD and how severe it may be.

How Is Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia Treated?

Treatment mainly focuses on supporting the lungs as they continue to mature.

Depending on the baby’s condition, treatment may include:

  • Oxygen support: Some babies need additional oxygen through nasal prongs or another breathing device.
  • Breathing support: CPAP or other respiratory support may be used if the baby needs help maintaining effective airway and lung function.
  • Nutrition: Growing requires plenty of energy, and babies with breathing problems may use more calories simply to breathe. Adequate breast milk, fortified feeds or tube feeding may therefore be recommended.
  • Medicines: In selected babies, doctors may prescribe medicines such as diuretics or steroids. These are used only when the medical team believes the potential benefits outweigh the risks.
  • Infection prevention: Respiratory infections can be more severe in babies with vulnerable lungs, so careful infection prevention is particularly important.

Can Babies With BPD Recover?

Yes, many babies with BPD improve as their lungs mature. Recovery can take different amounts of time. Some babies go home without oxygen, while others may need it for a while.

“Recovery from BPD takes time, and every baby follows a different path. Good nutrition, regular paediatric reviews and early treatment of breathing problems can support healthy growth and lung development.”

  • Dr Abhishek Chopra, Senior Consultant – Neonatologist and Paediatrician at Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Punjabi Bagh, New Delhi

When Should Parents Seek Medical Help?

After discharge, contact your baby’s doctor if you notice:

  • Fast or difficult breathing
  • Bluish or grey lips or skin
  • Poor feeding
  • Unusual sleepiness
  • Pauses in breathing
  • Increased need for oxygen
BPD may worry parents, but many premature babies improve as their lungs grow. With the right treatment, regular check-ups, and good home care, babies can gradually become stronger. Some may need oxygen or other support for a while, but their needs often reduce as their lungs continue to develop.

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FAQs on Premature Baby With Breathing Problems: What to Know

  1. Can a baby with BPD breastfeed?
    Many babies with BPD can breastfeed, but this depends on their breathing and overall condition. Some may initially need expressed breast milk through a feeding tube until feeding becomes easier.
  2. Will BPD affect the baby later in childhood?
    Many children who had BPD grow and develop well. However, some may remain more sensitive to respiratory infections or develop breathing problems during childhood. Follow-up depends on the severity of the condition.
  3. Can parents do anything to protect a baby with BPD at home?
    Yes. Keeping the baby away from cigarette smoke, avoiding contact with people who are unwell and following recommended vaccinations can help reduce the risk of respiratory illness.
Medically Reviewed By:
Dr Abhishek Chopra, Senior Consultant – Neonatologist and Paediatrician at Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Punjabi Bagh, New Delhi