What is a common symptom of respiratory distress syndrome in newborns?

Tachypnea and poor air exchange are hallmark symptoms of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) in newborns. RDS is primarily due to a deficiency of surfactant, which leads to atelectasis (collapse of the alveoli) and significantly impairs gas exchange. As a result, affected infants exhibit rapid breathing (tachypnea) as they attempt to compensate for the insufficient oxygenation and ventilation in their lungs. Poor air exchange can be observed through clinical signs, such as grunting or retractions, indicating that the newborn is struggling to breathe effectively.

In contrast, other options like weight gain and marked lethargy do not directly reflect the acute respiratory challenges faced by newborns with RDS. Bradycardia may occur in some neonates but is not a primary symptom of respiratory distress syndrome; rather, it could result from numerous other factors. Therefore, recognizing tachypnea and poor air exchange is essential in identifying and managing respiratory distress syndrome in newborns.