Respiratory distress is a breathing problem that affects newborns. It is also called RDS. It is more common in babies who are born early. In most cases, this is because the lungs have not fully developed. The lungs are not making enough of a foamy liquid that helps them stay open. This natural fluid is surfactant. It makes it easier for the lungs to open up and to keep from collapsing. Fully developed lungs contain this fluid.
