What is a common sign of respiratory distress in infants?

Grunting is a common sign of respiratory distress in infants and indicates that the child is attempting to increase end-expiratory pressure to improve oxygenation. When an infant experiences difficulty breathing, they may grunt when exhaling as a reflexive action to keep the alveoli open longer, thereby enhancing gas exchange. This effort helps to prevent atelectasis (collapse of lung tissue) and improves oxygen delivery to the body.

In contrast, hypertension, severe lethargy, and rash do not directly relate to the immediate signs of respiratory distress. Hypertension may indicate other underlying medical conditions but isn't specifically linked to respiratory function in infants. Severe lethargy, while concerning, is more indicative of overall systemic distress and may not be exclusively associated with respiratory issues. A rash typically points toward dermatological issues or allergic reactions, which do not necessarily signify problems with respiratory distress. Understanding these differences helps in recognizing the critical indicators of respiratory distress in infants, where grunting stands out as a significant sign.