Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS), also known as Hyaline Membrane Disease, is a group of lung conditions characterized by difficulty in breathing, inadequate oxygen supply, and abnormal lung development in newborns. This syndrome primarily affects premature infants, especially those born before 28 weeks of gestation, whose lungs have not fully matured.
RDS occurs due to a deficiency or absence of surfactant, a substance that coats the inner lining of the lungs and facilitates easy expansion and contraction of the air sacs. Surfactant deficiency leads to increased surface tension within the alveoli, causing them to collapse during exhalation and, subsequently, reducing the overall efficiency of gas exchange in the lungs.
Common symptoms of RDS include rapid, shallow breathing, flaring nostrils, grunting sounds, cyanosis (bluish discoloration of the skin), and decreased muscle tone. Diagnosis is made based on the clinical presentation, physical examination, and chest X-rays showing a characteristic "ground glass" appearance. In severe cases, blood tests and arterial blood gas analysis may be performed.
Immediate treatment of RDS involves providing oxygen supplementation and, if necessary, mechanical ventilation to maintain adequate oxygen levels and improve breathing. Additionally, exogenous surfactant may be administered through a tube placed into the trachea to improve lung function.
Prognosis for infants with RDS depends on factors such as the severity of the disease, gestational age, and overall health. With appropriate medical intervention and support, the majority of newborns recover from RDS within a few days to weeks. However, some cases may lead to complications, such as chronic lung disease or neurological problems.
