Neonatal respiratory distress syndrome
Alternate Names : Hyaline membrane disease, Infant respiratory distress syndrome (IRDS), Respiratory distress syndrome in infants, RDS - infants
Symptoms & Signs
The symptoms usually appear within minutes of birth, although they may not be seen for several hours. Symptoms may include: - Bluish color of the skin and mucus membranes (cyanosis)
- Brief stop in breathing (apnea)
- Decreased urine output
- Grunting
- Nasal flaring
- Puffy or swollen arms or legs
- Rapid breathing
- Shallow breathing
- Shortness of breath and grunting sounds while breathing
- Unusual breathing movement -- drawing back of the chest muscles with breathing
Diagnosis & Tests
A blood gas analysis shows low oxygen and excess acid in the body fluids. A chest x-ray shows respiratory distress. The lungs have a characteristic "ground glass" appearance, which often develops 6 to 12 hours after birth. Lung function studies may be needed. Lab tests are done to rule out infection and sepsis as a cause of the respiratory distress.
|
Previous
