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Showing posts with the label breathing difficulty in newborns

Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS) in Babies: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) is a common respiratory disorder that affects premature infants. It is caused by the absence or deficiency of a substance called surfactant, which helps keep the lungs inflated by reducing surface tension in the alveoli. Without surfactant, the alveoli can collapse and make it difficult for the baby to breathe. Symptoms of RDS usually appear shortly after birth and include rapid breathing, flaring nostrils, grunting sounds, and a bluish tint to the skin. The severity of the symptoms can range from mild to severe, depending on the degree of lung immaturity and the presence of other complications. In severe cases, RDS can lead to respiratory failure and other serious health problems. Treatment for RDS typically involves providing respiratory support to the infant, such as mechanical ventilation or continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). The baby may also need to receive surfactant replacement therapy, which involves administering a synthetic form o