What Causes Respiratory Distress Syndrome?

Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) mostly occurs in premature newborns.

Normally, the surfactant produced in lungs allows the air sacs to remain open throughout the respiratory cycle.

Considering that production of surfactant usually begins after about 34 weeks of pregnancy, the more premature a baby is born, the greater the chances that the newborn will develop respiratory distress syndrome.

Respiratory Distress Syndrome Symptoms:

The following symtoms are often present:

• Labored breathing,
• Grunting while exhaling,
• Low blood oxygen levels, and
• Cyanosis (Bluish skin color).

Respiratory Distress Syndrome Treatment Options:

Depending upon the severity of Respiratory Distress Syndrome, the following treatment may be considered for the newborn:

• Oxygen therapy using oxygen hood,
• Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP)
• Intubation,
• Mechanical ventilation, and
• Surfactant treatments.

Don't forget to check out Lung Disease News section of this website for the latest Respiratory Distress Syndrome News, and our Lung Disease Articles Library for the latest Respiratory Distress Syndrome / RDS Articles.

Please note: This document is currently being updated.

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