Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) is a serious lung condition that occurs primarily in premature infants due to a deficiency of surfactant, a substance that helps keep the lungs inflated. Without sufficient surfactant, the lungs become stiff and collapse easily, leading to breathing difficulties. RDS remains one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in preterm infants.
Symptoms of Respiratory Distress Syndrome of the Newborn (RDS)
Symptoms generally appear within the first 6 hours after birth and may include:
- Grunting respirations
- Retractions (visible pulling in of the chest wall during breathing)
- Nasal flaring
- Cyanosis (bluish discoloration of the skin due to low oxygen levels)
- Tachypnea (rapid breathing) or apnea (pauses in breathing)
- Increasing oxygen requirements
What Causes Respiratory Distress Syndrome of the Newborn (RDS)?
The lungs are composed of tiny, balloon-like air sacs called alveoli, where gas exchange occurs, delivering oxygen to the body and removing carbon dioxide. To remain open and function properly, the alveoli require surfactant, a substance produced in the lungs.
Premature infants often have underdeveloped lungs that produce inadequate amounts of surfactant, placing them at high risk for RDS. Although most cases occur in preterm infants, RDS can occasionally develop in full-term newborns as well.