Respiratory distress is a common condition that affects about 7% of all term neonates. Failure to readily recognize symptoms and treat the underlying cause of respiratory distress in the new-born can lead to short- and long-term complications, including chronic lung disease, respiratory failure, and even death. Respiratory distress is one of the most common reasons an infant is admitted to the NICU.
Studies show that about 15% of term infants and 29% of late preterm infants admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit develop significant respiratory morbidity; this is even higher for infants born before 34 weeks’ gestation. Various risk factors like prematurity, meconium-stained amniotic fluid (MSAF), caesarian section delivery, gestational diabetes, and maternal chorioamnionitis are responsible for the occurrence of respiratory distress. Pathogenesis The causes of respiratory distress…
