What is Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS)?

19 Feb 2010 Leave a Comment

by prem2pram in Babies Health & Development, Premature Babies Tags: Health, Hyaline membrane disease, Infant respiratory distress syndrome, Lung, Neonatal RDS, Premature Babies Lungs, Premature Baby Health, Respiratory Distress Syndrome, Respiratory system

Neonatal respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) is also known as Hyaline membrane disease (HMD). It is one of the most common breathing issues that can affect premature babies.

Between 24 and 28 weeks of gestation, a foetus begins producing “surfactant” in his or her lungs. Surfactant is a slippery, protective substance produced by cells in the airways and contains phospholipids and proteins. Sufficient amounts of surfactant are extremely important because they help keep the alveoli open during the oxygen/carbon dioxide transfer in the lungs. If there are insufficient amounts then alveoli will collapse. The cells that produce the surfactant are hyaline membranes. Usually by 35 weeks, a foetus has developed enough surfactant for his or her lungs to function normally.

It can also be the result of genetic problems with lung development.

Symptoms usually begin within minutes of birth, although they may not be seen for several hours. If treatment is not administered, the baby will eventually stop trying to breathe.

Symptoms

Bluish colour of the skin and mucus membranes
Briefly stopping breathing
Decreased urine output
Nasal flaring
Puffy or swollen arms or legs
Rapid breathing
Shallow breathing
Shortness of breath and grunting sounds while breathing

Respiratory Distress Syndrome affects babies of all nationalities and cultures, however males are more often affected than girls

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