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What is Birth Asphyxia?
Birth asphyxia, also known as neonatal asphyxia, is a condition that occurs when a baby does not receive enough oxygen before, during, or after birth. It is a leading cause of infant death and can cause long-term physical and mental disabilities in survivors.
Signs and Symptoms
The main signs and symptoms of birth asphyxia include decreased heart rate, low Apgar scores, and signs of acidosis such as blue skin color. Other symptoms may include seizures, irregular breathing, low blood pressure, and a decrease in muscle tone.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis of birth asphyxia is usually made based on the baby's symptoms and the results of tests such as umbilical cord gases, Apgar scores, and blood tests. In some cases, imaging tests such as an echocardiogram or a brain scan may be needed.
Treatment
Treatment for birth asphyxia depends on the severity of the condition. Mild cases may only require supportive care such as oxygen therapy or intravenous fluids. More severe cases may require advanced treatments such as resuscitation, breathing support, or medications to manage seizures.
Outlook
The outlook for babies with birth asphyxia depends on the severity of the condition and the amount of treatment they receive. In some cases, babies can fully recover with no lasting effects. However, in more severe cases, babies may have long-term physical and mental disabilities.