Understanding Respiratory Distress in Babies Born Before 28 Weeks

Title: Understanding Respiratory Distress in Babies Born Before 28 Weeks Thesis Statement: Babies born before 28 weeks gestation commonly experience respiratory distress due to the immaturity of their lungs, which are not fully developed to support efficient breathing outside the womb. Introduction Infants born prematurely, particularly before 28 weeks of gestation, often face challenges related to respiratory distress. In the scenario of a pregnant woman involved in a car accident at 27 weeks, leading to the premature delivery of the baby who requires treatment for respiratory issues, understanding the reasons behind this phenomenon is crucial. This essay aims to delve into the factors contributing to respiratory distress in babies born before 28 weeks and provide a comprehensive explanation supported by relevant research. Explanation It is common for babies born before 28 weeks to experience respiratory distress primarily due to the immaturity of their lungs. The lungs play a vital role in gas exchange, allowing oxygen to enter the bloodstream and carbon dioxide to be eliminated. However, in preterm infants, particularly those born before 28 weeks, the lungs are not fully developed, leading to various respiratory complications. According to a study by Jobe (2016), lung development in fetuses is a complex process that continues throughout pregnancy, with significant advancements occurring in the third trimester. Before 28 weeks of gestation, the lungs are still in the late canalicular and early saccular stages, characterized by underdeveloped air sacs (alveoli) and inadequate surfactant production. Surfactant is a substance essential for reducing surface tension in the alveoli, allowing them to remain open and facilitate efficient gas exchange. When a baby is born prematurely before the lungs have reached sufficient maturity, they are at a higher risk of developing respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). RDS is a common condition in preterm infants characterized by breathing difficulties due to surfactant deficiency and immature lung structure. This results in increased work of breathing, reduced lung compliance, and poor oxygen exchange, leading to respiratory distress that requires medical intervention and support such as oxygen therapy or mechanical ventilation. In conclusion, the immaturity of the lungs in babies born before 28 weeks gestation predisposes them to respiratory distress, highlighting the critical need for specialized care and interventions to support their respiratory function until their lungs can fully mature. References Jobe, A. H. (2016). The new bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Current Opinion in Pediatrics, 28(2), 1-6.

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