Symptom 2: The Unseen Struggle – Respiratory Distress
The second notable symptom of SBS is respiratory distress. Infants suffering from this syndrome may present with a wide range of respiratory issues. Some infants may exhibit shallow, rapid breathing, while others may have difficulty breathing altogether.
Respiratory distress in infants can manifest in many ways. Parents might notice their child gasping for air, a symptom often associated with common respiratory ailments such as asthma or respiratory infections. However, in the context of SBS, this seemingly common symptom takes on a more sinister connotation.
An especially worrisome form of respiratory distress linked to SBS is apnea, a condition characterized by periods of no breathing. Infants with apnea may appear to struggle with their breath, then suddenly stop breathing for several seconds or longer. This symptom can be particularly terrifying for parents and necessitates immediate medical attention. (2)
