Which symptom is associated with neonatal respiratory distress syndrome?

Neonatal respiratory distress syndrome (NRDS), often seen in premature infants, is primarily characterized by difficulty breathing. This condition arises due to insufficient production of surfactant, a substance that helps keep the alveoli in the lungs open, reducing surface tension. When surfactant levels are low, infants struggle to inflate their lungs, leading to respiratory distress. Symptoms typically include rapid, shallow breathing, grunting, flaring of nostrils, and retractions of the chest wall—all indicative of breathing difficulties.

The other options do not align with the typical presentation of NRDS. Weight gain is generally not associated with this syndrome, as affected infants often have difficulty feeding and may not gain weight appropriately. High blood pressure is not a hallmark of respiratory distress nor directly related to the lung function issues presented in neonatal respiratory distress syndrome. Excessive yawning is not a recognized symptom of NRDS; it may occur for various reasons unrelated to the respiratory concerns in neonates. Understanding these points clarifies why difficulty breathing is the primary symptom associated with neonatal respiratory distress syndrome.