problems of preterm infant ( complications of prematurity )

Usually preterm infants are liable to many problems respiratory , cardiac , etc...... . This makes it is hard to deal with a preterm baby in the medical issue . 

 

1- Respiratory : 

- Respiratory distress syndrome is the major problem in the premature babies , due to insufficient formation in the surfactant , leading to respiratory distress in the preterm infants . 

- Apnea due to immature respiratory center . 

- Pneumothorax :air in the chest . 

- Bronchopulmonary dysplasia : it is a chronic lung disease , here the condition is irreversible . 

 

2- Neurological : 

Intracranial hemorrhage : bleeding inside the bone of the head . 

3- Abdominal : 

- Necrotizing enterocolitis with intestinal perforation . 

- Immature bowel syndrome. 

4- Cardiac " patent ductus arteriosus " 

 

5- Anemia of prematurity 

6- Sepsis : " immature nervous system " 

7- Poor suckling and swallowing 

8- Metabolic disorders : 

loss of heat , low serum calcium and magnesium and low glucose level . 

9- Retinopathy of prematurity : injury in the retina due to exposure of the premature baby to prolonged oxygen .