The condition of not breathing; very common in premature infants but usually lasting only a few seconds; if more severe, might require specific treatment, such as a ventilator or medications
(ap-ne-a) Cessation of breathing, usually temporary in nature May result from reduction in stimuli to the respiratory center as in over-breathing in which carbon dioxide content of the blood is reduced, from failure of respiratory center to discharge impulses as occurs when the breath is held voluntarily, or during Cheyne-Stokes respiration See also Sleep Apnea