Q: Which doctor treats a baby with Meconium Aspiration Syndrome?
A: A Pediatrician or a Neonatologist treats a baby with Meconium Aspiration Syndrome.
Q: Is it not possible to diagnose a baby with Meconium Aspiration Syndrome before birth?
A: Yes, it is possible to diagnose a newborn with Meconium Aspiration Syndrome before delivery if meconium aspiration has occurred by then. This can be done with a fetal ultrasound and fetal heart monitoring which shows slow heart rate. While in cases where meconium aspiration has occurred during delivery assessment needs to be done after birth.
Q: Does a baby with Meconium Aspiration Syndrome have problems in the future after resuscitation?
A: Not always. With recent advances and early detection and management of Meconium Aspiration Syndrome, chances of long term complications are very rare. In severe cases, complications may arise in the form of chronic lung conditions, developmental conditions, persistent pulmonary hypertension, hearing loss and neurological damage.
Q: What investigations are useful in diagnosing Meconium Aspiration Syndrome?
A: Chest X-ray, blood gas analysis and laryngoscopic examination of the vocal cords are helpful in confirming the diagnosis of Meconium Aspiration Syndrome.
Q: What is the first step in case of a suspected case of Meconium Aspiration Syndrome?
A: The first step of treatment in case of a suspected case of Meconium Aspiration Syndrome is oral and nasal suction Intrapartum and oxygen support immediately after delivery.
