It is common in preterm and it occurs in the first few hours after birth.
RISK FACTORS
The risk factors of RDS are the lack of oxygen and ischemia to vital organs(Asphyxia) and gestational diabetes.
CAUSES
The main cause of RDS is lung surfactant deficiency which is produced by the type 2 alveolar cells. The main function of the lung surfactant is to reduce the surface tension in the alveoli. The surfactant is normally produced in the lung around 20weeks of gestation and therefore the RDS is common in any neonates less than 35 weeks of gestation because the surfactant production is high during the 35th week.
CLINICAL FEATURES
- Tachypnea - increased respiratory rate
- Chest retractions
- Grunting - the abnormal sound heard during respiration
- Cyanosis - bluish discolouration of the skin and the mucous membrane
DIAGNOSIS
RDS is confirmed by chest ray. The findings seen in the chest-ray are homogeneous opacification of lungs and the presence of air bronchogram.
MANAGEMENT OF RDS
To prevent alveoli collapsing and to keep them open, the continuous positive airway pressure is needed.
Mechanical ventilation is also needed to treat RDS. Be conscious that the oxygen saturation should not exceed 95% because it may lead to ROP(Retinopathy of prematurity).
TREATMENT
The exogenous surfactant is said as treatment of choice which is administered intratracheally and it is must for all neonates born less than 28 weeks.
PREVENTING RDS
Antenatal steroids to mothers in preterm labour less than 35 weeks will reduce the complications of RDS.
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