Chronic Lung diseaseDefinition Chro

Chronic Lung diseaseDefinition Chronic lung disease (CLD) can otherwise be known as Broncho pulmonary dysplasia. It is a generic term for long term respiratory problems in premature babies. Chronic lung disease is a result of a lung injury in a new born and as the newborns lungs are easily damaged itleads to scaring on the lungs. This results in difficulty breathing and increased oxygen needs. The injury to the lung can be caused by: • Prematurity – The lungs may not be fully developed. • Low amounts of surfactant (a substance keeping the air sacs open.) • Mechanical ventilation • Inherited problems that affect the development of the lungs • Lack of nourishment • A heart condition called patent ductusarterious. The Symptoms • Trouble breathing • Grunting and or breathing fast • Flaring nostrils • Wheezing • Tiring easily • Pale, grey, blotchy skin• Use the chest and belly muscles to breath – it looks like they are sucking air in These symptoms can start as early as three days after birth. Swimming:Parents should try and avoid the child from getting infections to protect the child’s lungs this can be done through• Washing your hands often to avoid the spread of infection, and choosing a day care with no more than three children. • Schedule regular doctors’ appointments/check-ups• Make sure your child is immunised to the recommendations • Don’t let people smoke around your child. This suggests that the child should not swim unless the doctor has given the go ahead which seems unlikely until the lung heals.