What is a common characteristic of a baby diagnosed with respiratory distress syndrome?

Rapid shallow breathing is a common characteristic of a baby diagnosed with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). This condition, often seen in premature infants due to a deficiency of surfactant in the lungs, leads to difficulty in maintaining adequate oxygenation and ventilation. As a result, the infant exhibits increased respiratory effort, which manifests as rapid and shallow breathing patterns. The body is attempting to compensate for the impaired gas exchange by increasing the rate of respiration.

In contrast, while cyanotic extremities may be observed in some respiratory conditions, they are not a definitive hallmark of RDS and may occur for various reasons. Persistent sneezing is not typically associated with RDS and could indicate different underlying issues, such as an upper respiratory infection or allergy. Intermittent fevers can arise from a variety of infections or conditions but are not specific to respiratory distress syndrome. Hence, rapid shallow breathing stands out as the most indicative sign of RDS.