Question
Why might a newborn experience rapid breathing during sleep, sometimes accompanied by groaning?
Answer
Rapid breathing in newborns, medically known as neonatal respiratory distress syndrome, is a progressive respiratory difficulty and respiratory failure that occurs soon after birth. This condition is primarily due to the lack of surfactant in the alveoli, leading to progressive collapse of the alveoli. Within 4 to 12 hours after birth, infants may exhibit symptoms such as progressive respiratory difficulty, groaning, cyanosis, and inspiratory Depression. In severe cases, it may lead to respiratory failure. The incidence of this condition is related to gestational age; the shorter the gestational age, the higher the incidence and mortality rate. It is advised for parents to remain calm and bring their child to the hospital for examination to confirm any abnormalities. Since newborns are younger and their respiratory system and other organs are not fully matured, it is important to seek medical attention promptly when such symptoms occur.