infant respiratory distress syndrome (IRDS)

Infant respiratory distress syndrome (IRDS) is a condition that affects newborns, especially preterm ones, making it hard for them to breathe. It occurs because their lungs haven't developed enough to produce surfactant, a substance that keeps air sacs in the lungs open during breathing. Without enough surfactant, the lungs tend to collapse, leading to difficulty breathing, low oxygen levels, and breathing fast. IRDS is often treated with supplemental oxygen, respiratory support, and sometimes medication to help increase surfactant production. Prompt medical care helps many infants recover and breathe more easily.