children s health issues
Respiratory Distress Syndrome in Newborns
Treatment of Respiratory Distress Syndrome in Newborns
Sometimes surfactant therapy Oxygen and measures to support breathing In some newborns with respiratory distress syndrome, a breathing tube may need to be passed into the windpipe after delivery. The tube is attached to a Mechanical Ventilation (a machine that helps air get in and out of the lungs) to support the newborn’s breathing. Surfactant is given to the newborn through the tube. Several doses of the surfactant may be needed. After delivery, less premature newborns and newborns with mild respiratory distress syndrome may require only supplemental oxygen or may require oxygen delivered by Obstructive sleep apnea (CPAP). Supplemental oxygen is given through prongs placed in the newborn’s nostrils. CPAP allows newborns to breathe on their own while being given slightly pressurized oxygen. Surfactant treatments may be repeated several times during the first days of life if respiratory distress continues. 