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Information on Hypertension in Newborn Babies

Hypertension in newborn babies is known as Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension of the Newborn (PPHN), and while it is a rare condition that is typically diagnosed at birth, it is a serious condition that can lead to fatal complications. PPHN is typically a treatable and potentially reversible condition, but a small percentage of children may develop heart and lung diseases and developmental disabilities.

  1. Causes

    • When a baby is in the womb it does not depend on its lungs to breathe. Instead, oxygen is passed to the baby through the placenta. Once the umbilical cord is cut at the time of birth, the baby's lungs fill with air and it begins to breath on its own. The pulmonary artery, known as the ductus arteriosus, which sends blood to the baby's heart while in the womb, should close at the time of birth. When this artery does not close, blood flow does not reach the baby's lungs, causing insufficient oxygen in the heart and other organs, according to The Children's Hospital website. Pneumonia and certain heart conditions, including heart murmurs, can also contribute to the development of PPHN.

    Symptoms

    • A baby with PPHN is typically born in distress. Many babies with PPHN are also premature and so lung function would be insufficient for the baby to breath on its own. Other symptoms include respiratory distress, increased heart rate and rapid breathing. The color of the baby's skin may also appear blue because of such low oxygen levels.

    Diagnosis

    • There are a number of tests that doctors can perform to either confirm or rule out PPHN. Blood tests can determine if the baby has a sufficient amount of oxygen in its blood, X-rays and ultrasounds can determine the health of the heart and lungs, and electrolyte tests can determine the amount of minerals that are in a baby's blood, states The Children's Hospital website.

    Treatment

    • The first step in treating PPHN is to deliver as much oxygen as possible to the baby's lungs. Newborns with PPHN are typically placed on ventilators for a primary supply of oxygen. Doctors may also administer nitric oxide which may increase blood flow to the lungs. Most newborns with PPHN have to be placed in a neonatal care unit in critical care until they show signs of improvement.

    Prognosis

    • For many newborn's with PPHN, the condition can be reversed. Babies whose conditions are more serious may suffer from serious complications and illnesses. Lung disease, developmental disabilities, speech problems, seizures and hearing problems are all possible complications from PPHN.

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