Respiratory Distress Syndrome in Newborns

How is the condition diagnosed?

During the first 72 hours, infants that are developing RDS have increasing difficulty breathing. They also have trouble getting sufficient oxygen into the bloodstream because their lungs are not functioning well. Healthcare providers can use x-rays to help determine whether a baby is developing RDS and how severe it is. The collapse of the alveoli, or atelectasis, can be seen on a chest x-ray.