12/09/2020
While not all premature babies experience complications, being born too early can cause SHORT TERM & LONG TERM complications.
A) Short-term Complications:
1. BREATHING PROBLEMS- Caused by an immature respiratory system.
Immature lungs in premature babies often lack SURFACTANT and ALVEOLAR COLLAPSE may occur.
Sometimes a more severe complication called as BRONCHOPULMONARY DYSPLASIA (BPD) may occur.
2. HEART PROBLEMS- Like PATENT DUCTUS ARTERIOSUS (PDA) can be seen due to depression in respiration.
If not supported properly, it can also lead to HEART MURMUR & even HEART FAILURE
3. BRAIN PROBLEMS- Like INTRAVENTRICULAR HEMORRHAGE which may lead to brain injury.
4. HYPOTHERMIA- A preterm-baby has LOW STORED FAT as compared to a fullterm-baby.
The preterm-baby is more susceptible to losing body heat in the form of radiation.
Hence such babies are supported with the help of an INCUBATOR or RADIANT WARMER.
5. GASTROINTESTINAL PROBLEMS- A serious complication called as NECROTISING ENTEROCOLITIS (NEC) is often seen because of the weakened state of intestine due to the lack of oxygen resulting in BACTERIAL INFILTRATION and subsequent NECROSIS.
However preterm babies recieving BREASTMILK are less prone to such complications (BREASTFEEDING 101).
B) Long-term Complications: (Generally due to the developmental anomalies)
1. CNS ASSOCIATED PROBLEMS- Like CEREBRAL PALSY due to inadequate blood supply can lead to impared muscle tone and posture related problems. Also, impared learning, behavioural and psychological problems are precipitated.
2. IMPARED VISION in preterms (reffered as RETINOPATHY OF PREMATURITY) due to scarring and pulling out of position of retina leads to BLINDNESS.
3. DENTAL PROBLEMS such as DELAYED tooth eruption , DISCOLORATED and MIS-ALIGNED TEETH can also be seen.
***However, if the baby is supported properly with proper medical assistance, better prognosis is seen and even a early preterm baby can show FULL RECOVERY.***