What is chronic lung disease?

Chronic lung disease (CLD) or bronchopulmonary dysplasia is a long -term respiratory condition that occurs in premature children. It is a disease that builds slowly, making it difficult to diagnose before it becomes serious. This is usually due to the fact that the child has suffered damage to the lungs, which occurs easily, because the lungs of a premature child are so fragile.

There are several causes of chronic lung disease. Lung injuries can be caused by fan tubes that are commonly used in newborns. Damage can also be caused when premature lungs are forced to work before they are fully developed. Too high oxygen concentration can also damage lung tissue. The low amount of surface -active substance that helps to maintain air bags open can also cause CLD. When the lungs of an premature child are damaged, this can cause inflammation, which may eventually cause scarring.

infants born 34 weeks ago and weighing below four andHalf a pound (about 2 kg) is the greatest risk of developing CLD. Male Caucasian infants have a slightly higher risk, as well as children born in a family with an anamnesis of asthma problems. Chorioamnionitis, maternal infection, may also increase the chances that a premature child can be born with chronic lung disease.

Respiratory anxiety and long -term need for mechanical ventilation or oxygen after the child reaches the age of 36 weeks of pregnancy is the symptoms of chronic lung disease. It is difficult to catch this disease when it first begins because it progresses so slowly. To diagnose, the doctor usually sends the baby to the chest X-ray. By comparing this new image with previous X -rays, it is possible to find out where chronic lung diseases fit. The lungs of the affected CLD look like a sponge or lively compared to conventional lungs.

There are several factorsthat the doctor considers before determining treatment for chronic lung disease. The first is the gestational age, overall health and history of the child. The physician will also consider how advanced the disease and tolerance of the child is for certain medical treatments. The preferences of the child's parents and the expected course of the disease are also considered.

drugs that help open airways and reduce inflammation can be used to treat CLDs. Infant can be given other oxygen to compensate for the limited efficiency of damaged lungs. Infants still requiring mechanical ventilation can be slowly shut down from the machine, as their lungs are recommended to take the respiratory function itself. Limiting fluids, lowering excess fluid in the lungs and increasing nutrition to strengthen the child, can also be recommended by a doctor.

Chronic lung diseases are a long -term condition. While most children will be able to breathe alone before leaving the hospital, some infants may still require up to a year. Many infants will continue to receiveat oxygen therapy several months after returning home; This is an easy treatment that will show up to parents how. Most infants with chronic lung disease grow healthy and strongly and leave their condition behind and live normal lives.