Question
How long after birth do neonates typically show symptoms of respiratory distress syndrome?
Answer
Neonatal Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS) usually presents symptoms within a few hours after birth. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), typical symptoms appear between 6 to 12 hours after birth, but they may manifest shortly after birth, especially in very premature infants. Symptoms include rapid breathing, sighing respirations, cyanosis (blue discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes), weight loss, and decreased activity.