Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is a lung disease that affects premature babies. The underdeveloped lungs of the newborn at the time of birth and the survival of babies of low gestational age in intensive care units are the prime causes of BPD. This blog discusses viable treatments for bronchopulmonary dysplasia.
How is Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia Treated?
Rigorous breathing treatments in infants cause severe damage to the lungs. Therefore, the primary treatment for bronchopulmonary dysplasia involves non-invasive ventilation strategies to prevent the genesis of BPD.
Strategies for BPD lung treatment are discussed in detail below:
- Nasal continuous positive airway pressure (nCPAP): This medical device maintains the pressure levels as the infant inhales and exhales. Doing so helps maintain adequate oxygen levels and reduces breathing efforts. Maintaining positive pressure during expiration prevents alveolar collapse, a medical condition in which the air sacs in the lungs do not expand fully.
- Surfactant replacement therapy: Surfactant forms a layer over the alveoli in the lungs and keeps them inflated. It usually begins to develop around the 24th to 28th week of pregnancy. The absence of this coating in premature infants poses respiratory problems. It is when surfactant replacement therapy comes into play. It involves the application of an exogenous surfactant to improve alveolar expansion.
- Fluid restriction: BPD makes it difficult for the infant’s body to remove extra fluids. The additional fluid can get concentrated in the lungs, making breathing even harder for the baby. Bronchopulmonary dysplasia medications to reduce fluid in the body include diuretics such as furosemide, chlorothiazide, and spironolactone. However, the medicines must be consumed only after the doctor’s consultation. Possible side effects of furosemide include kidney stones and difficulty hearing.
- Bronchopulmonary dysplasia medications: In some instances, other than diuretics, bronchodilators and anti-inflammatory medicines are required for infants. These are administered either through a nebuliser or an inhaler. At times, the muscles around the bronchi tighten and narrow down the passage of air, leading to bronchospasm. Bronchodilators such as albuterol and levalbuterol loosen the grip of muscles. Inflammation can lead to swelling and irritation in the lungs. Anti-inflammatory medicines such as montelukast, budesonide and fluticasone treat this condition.
- Adequate nutrition: Proper nutrition is the panacea for the treatment of BPD in neonates, especially premature ones. They need at least 100–150 kcal/kg per day. Although breastmilk provides the required nutrients for the baby, formula and other additives can also be needed in exceptional circumstances.
Conclusion
Once the infant reaches maturity, lung function improves, and respiratory issues subside. After the baby is discharged from the hospital, take care of their health and immediately consult a specialist in case of an emergency. In addition to that, subscribe to a health insurance policy so you don’t have to worry about hospitalisation expenses.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.