NEWBORN RESPIRATORY DISTRESS SYNDROME

SYMPTOMS

Newborn Respiratory Distress Syndrome symptoms are often visible shortly after delivery and worsen over several days. They may include the following: 

• Bluish fingers, toes, and lips
• Shallow and fast breathing
• Producing a grunting sound
• Widening of nostrils when breathing
• Chest retractions

DIAGNOSIS

A variety of tests are available to diagnose Newborn Respiratory Distress Syndrome and rule out other probable causes. These may include:

• Blood Test. This is to determine the quantity of oxygen in the baby’s blood and rule out infection.
• Physical examination
• Pulse Oximetry Test. This is to check the amount of oxygen in the baby’s blood through a sensor placed to a fingertip, ear, or toe.
• Chest X-ray. It is used to examine the NRDS-specific fuzzy image of the lungs.

TREATMENT

The primary goal of Newborn Respiratory Distress Syndrome therapy focuses on helping the infant breathe comfortably. They require more oxygen, and it may be delivered in a variety of ways:

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP). This equipment softly pumps air or oxygen into the lungs to keep the air sacs open.

Intravenous (IV) Catheter Therapy. A catheter, which is a very tiny tube, is inserted on one or more of the blood vessels in the umbilical. It’s how the baby receives IV fluids, nourishment, and medications. The doctor may also use it to collect samples of blood.

Nasal Cannula.  A tiny tube with prongs is inserted into the nose.

Ventilator. This device assists the newborn in breathing when they cannot do it on their own. The infant’s windpipe is inserted with a breathing tube. This is known as intubation.

Surfactant. It is provided to the baby’s lungs to supply what they lack. This is administered straight via the breathing tube that has been inserted into the windpipe.

Antibiotics. It may be prescribed if an infection is suspected. Calming medications may be used to alleviate discomfort during therapy.