Apnea or ALTE

An apparent life-threatening event (ALTE) is an episode were an infant is observed having a frightening episode. This means they may change colour, muscle tone may change by becoming limp or stiff or by choking and gagging that requires the carer to intervene.

In infants it is suggested that the likely occurrence of a first episode being witness is between the age of 1-2 months old and is seen very rarely after the age of 8 months.

It is possible that when an infant reflexes stomach contents back into the esophagus, it can cause an air way obstruction or trigger the larynx to involuntary close known as an larynospasm, temporary obstructing the flow of air to the lungs.

Written by Tracey (LWR Chairman)