Understanding Hyaline Membrane Disease (HMD)

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Understanding Hyaline Membrane Disease (HMD): Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

What is Hyaline Membrane Disease (HMD) and Its Prevalence in Newborns?

Hyaline Membrane Disease (HMD) is a type of infant respiratory distress syndrome that affects newborns. This disorder is also known as Infant Respiratory Distress Syndrome (IRDS), Neonatal Distress Syndrome (NDS). It is a common breathing disorder in newborns and can lead to serious complications if not treated quickly. HMD occurs when the tiny air sacs in the lungs, called alveoli, become filled with fluid and cannot properly exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide.

This results in difficulty breathing and other symptoms such as rapid breathing, grunting, nasal flaring, chest retractions, and bluish skin color. If left untreated, HMD can be fatal for the affected newborn. It is estimated that HMD affects around 1 in every 1000 newborns worldwide and it is one of the leading causes of death in infants under one month old. Fortunately, with early diagnosis and treatment with oxygen therapy or mechanical ventilation, most cases of HMD can be successfully managed.

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