Overview
Respiratory Distress Syndrome in Preterm Baby is one of the most common problems. It occurs due to the deficiency of a type of protein known as surfactant in the lungs. The protein is vital for lowering the surface tension of lungs. If absent, it will lead to lung collapse and loss of breathing capabilities.Signs and Symptoms
Tachypnea more than 60 breaths/min, Labored breathing, Chest recession, Nasal flaring, Grunting during expiration, Cyanosis, Feeding difficulties.Common Causes
Pulmonary hemorrhage, Meconium aspiration pneumonia, Oxygen toxicity, Congenital diaphragmatic hernia and pulmonary hypoplasia.Risk Factors
Preterm baby <28 weeks of gestation, Infant of diabetic mother, Caesarean delivery, Perinatal asphyxia, Perinatal pulmonary infection, Second born twins, Previous birth of baby with respiratory distress syndrome.Investigation Techniques
Physical examination, Arterial blood gases, Pulse oximetry,Chest X-ray, EchocardiographyTreatment and Prevention
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) or artificial ventilation, Mechanical ventilation, High flow oxygen therapy, Surfactant replacement, Systemic corticosteroids, Place infant in incubator or radiant warmer, Fluid, metabolic and nutritional support, Maintain vitals, Antibiotic administration, Family support Prevention done by transfering the following patients to a tertiary care center: Mothers with high-risk pregnancy, Mothers in premature labor, Newborn infants with respiratory failure
