Transient Tachypnea of the Newborn

Transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN) is a mild and passing breathing difficulty that can appear in the first hours of life, related to the slow clearance of the fluid that filled the lungs before birth.

How it presents: It is usually noticed as faster-than-usual breathing in the newborn, which tends to improve over a short period.

Common causes: It is associated with the slower reabsorption of lung fluid after birth, and is more frequent in some deliveries.

Which specialist treats it? The pediatrician and the neonatologist are the ones who monitor the newborn's breathing and decide on the appropriate follow-up. If a baby breathes rapidly or with effort, the prudent thing is to have a professional evaluate it right away.