Chronic lung disease in infants

Content provided by Healthwise

Chronic lung disease in infants

Chronic lung disease, or bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), is a condition that causes breathing problems in newborns, usually those who are born too early (prematurely). The lungs may trap air or collapse, fill with fluid, and make extra mucus.

A newborn with chronic lung disease may grunt and wheeze, breathe rapidly, and flare the nostrils. The baby also may have skin that stretches between or under the ribs while the baby breathes in, and he or she may tire easily during feedings. The newborn's skin may look gray, pale, or blotchy. These symptoms may appear as early as 3 days after the baby is born.

There is no one test to diagnose chronic lung disease. A doctor may first suspect it if a baby has difficulty breathing and requires extra oxygen for a certain amount of time.

Treatment depends on how severe the condition is. Treatment usually includes oxygen therapy and sometimes using a ventilator, as well as medicines and nutritional therapy. Treatment does not cure chronic lung disease. However, it helps a newborn breathe more easily while the lungs mature and heal on their own.

Credits

Author	Jeannette Curtis
Author	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor	Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer	Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated	May 25, 2007

Last updated:	May 25, 2007
Author:	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.