Surfactant replacement is a proven treatment that can reduce the severity of RDS in newborn infants. This treatment is most effective if begun within the first six hours of delivery. Surfactant is the protein lacking in the baby’s lungs, which causes RDS. Artificial surfactant can be administered to babies who are at risk of developing RDS or those who require immediate treatment.
Babies who have RDS are treated differently from other newborns to reduce their need for oxygen. This includes extra gentle handling, special attention devoted to keeping them at an ideal temperature and keeping them in a quiet, low stress environment.
Symptoms of RDS
The symptoms of RDS typically worsen between the second and fourth day of life and will either then dramatically improve, or in the most severe cases, the baby can die, though this is very rare.
The best way to avoid giving birth to a baby who develops RDS is to have a healthy and full-term pregnancy. Have regular medical checkups during your pregnancy and follow your doctor’s suggestions.
Resources:
Infant respiratory distress syndrome (hyaline membrane disease). (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.childrenshospital.org/az/Site1115/mainpageS1115P0.html
Neonatal respiratory distress syndrome. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0002530/