8 Common Health Risks of Premature Birth and How to Prevent Them

By Your Health Magazine

Your Health Magazine

. http://yourhealthmagazine.net

More Women's Health & Beauty Articles

8 Common Health Risks of Premature Birth and How to Prevent Them

The arrival of a newborn is a momentous occasion, but when a baby is born prematurely, the journey to their well-being becomes a challenge.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the year 2020 witnessed a staggering 13.4 million premature births worldwide. This equates to approximately 1 in 10 births occurring before 37 weeks of pregnancy.

Tragically, nearly 1 million of these infants faced complications and did not survive, making preterm birth the leading cause of child deaths. This alarming statistic sheds light on the urgent need to address the vulnerabilities faced by premature infants.

In this article, we will delve into eight common health risks faced by premature infants, exploring their causes, symptoms, and prevention strategies.

1. Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS)

According to Springer Nature, respiratory distress is a frequent concern among neonates admitted to neonatal intensive care units. Although non-invasive ventilation methods are increasingly employed for neonates experiencing breathing difficulties, a subset of infants necessitates more advanced airway support.

Delayed intubation, especially in unforeseen urgent cases, is linked to heightened morbidity risks.

The essence of managing RDS in infants lies in early and accurate prediction of the potential need for intubation. Such foresight not only provides additional time for preparation but also widens the safety margins by circumventing late intubation in high-risk infants.

Among the approaches to mitigate the impact of RDS, surfactant therapy and mechanical ventilation play pivotal roles. Surfactant therapy, a treatment involving surfactant replacement, aids in reducing surface tension in the underdeveloped lungs, facilitating easier breathing.

Additionally, mechanical ventilation, involving the use of ventilators and respiratory support equipment, helps ensure adequate oxygen supply to the infant’s fragile respiratory system.

2. Intraventricular Hemorrhage (IVH)

IVH poses a significant risk for premature infants, involving bleeding within the brain- a common occurrence in these fragile newborns. Preventive measures are crucial, including meticulous monitoring, proper head positioning, and medications to stabilize blood pressure.

According to MedlinePlus, halting IVH-related bleeding is challenging. Medical teams focus on stabilizing the infant and addressing symptoms. Interventions like blood transfusions are employed to improve blood pressure and count.

If fluid accumulation raises concerns about brain pressure, a spinal tap may be performed for drainage. In severe cases, surgery might be necessary to insert a shunt, alleviating fluid buildup and safeguarding the infant from further complications.

3. Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC)

NEC is a severe gastrointestinal threat prevalent among premature infants, leading to tissue death within the intestine. This condition is particularly concerning for vulnerable preemies and requires focused preventive strategies.

Careful feeding approaches, emphasizing breast milk benefits due to its protective properties, and probiotic supplementation are pivotal measures. These methods strengthen the infant’s delicate digestive system, reducing the risk of NEC.

Moreover, early detection and swift medical intervention are paramount to minimize NEC’s devastating impact.

TorHoerman Law notes that a significant concern has emerged regarding specific baby formula brands and the development of NEC. Lawsuits have been filed against major manufacturers like Similac and Enfamil, alleging their products, particularly bovine-based formulas led to the development of NEC.

The latest NEC lawsuit update reveals that the infant formula multidistrict litigation (MDL) has tripled in size since the start of 2023. Families whose infants were diagnosed with NEC after receiving such formulas in hospitals or as gifts are eligible to file lawsuits.

4. Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP)

ROP presents a concerning condition in premature infants, characterized by abnormal blood vessel development in their eyes, potentially leading to lifelong blindness. Regular eye examinations are vital for early detection and intervention.

However, promising research from Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital offers a breakthrough. Dr. Isabelle De Plaen has discovered that using a non-invasive technique called nailbed capillaroscopy within the first month of life can identify high-risk infants.

According to News Medical, this innovative screening method could spare many premature babies from invasive eye exams, revolutionizing ROP detection and prevention practices

5. Jaundice

This condition, characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes, can lead to serious complications if left untreated. Phototherapy stands as a primary treatment method, involving exposing the baby’s skin to special lights that help break down excess bilirubin.

The baby is often placed under these lights in a warm, enclosed crib, wearing only a diaper and protective eye patches. This exposure aids in the elimination of bilirubin through the baby’s urine and stools.

Timely and appropriate interventions are crucial to managing premature infant jaundice and preventing potential complications.

6. Apnea of Prematurity

These breathing interruptions, known as apnea episodes, can lead to oxygen desaturation and bradycardia, posing significant health risks. To address this, neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) employ apnea monitors. These monitors are crucial devices that continuously track an infant’s heart rate, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, and blood pressure.

Apnea monitors, as reported by Healthnews, use advanced waveforms to detect shallow or paused breathing. They promptly alert medical staff if the baby’s vital signs fall outside the safe range.

While most premature infants eventually outgrow apnea episodes, some continue to experience these events even after NICU admission. In such cases, infants may be sent home with apnea monitors, ensuring continuous surveillance and enabling timely intervention.

7. Susceptibility to Infections

Premature infants face heightened vulnerability to infections due to their underdeveloped immune systems, making infection prevention paramount. Rigorous hand hygiene practices among caregivers and healthcare providers are crucial, serving as the first line of defense.

Hospitals often implement restricted visitation policies to minimize exposure, ensuring a controlled environment for these fragile infants. Additionally, healthcare professionals employ aseptic techniques, maintaining sterile conditions during medical procedures and handling to prevent infections.

8. Neurological Impairments

Brain impairments stem from their underdeveloped nervous systems and often include conditions like cerebral palsy and developmental delays. These complications can have long-lasting effects on a child’s life.

Early intervention programs are essential, offering specialized therapies and support to promote optimal neurological development. These programs aim to address developmental milestones and provide the necessary therapeutic interventions to mitigate the impact of neurological impairments.

With timely and tailored care, premature infants have a better chance of overcoming the challenges posed by these conditions.

Final Thoughts

Amidst the medical complexities, one constant remains. The resilience of these premature babies and the unwavering dedication of healthcare providers and parents. With ongoing research, stringent protocols, and parental support, the trajectory for infants is steadily improving.

As we delve deeper into the intricacies of premature births, the collective commitment to their well-being paves the way for a healthier future. It’s the one where these infants not only survive but thrive, inspiring hope and resilience in the face of adversity.