[jacobsmum]

Hi I am the mum of a 25 weeker. Jacob was ventilated for 9 weeks, then cpap for 3 and then nasal cannula O2 until 40 weeks gestation.

Because he was on O2 until 40 weeks, does this classify as chronic lung disease? what are the syptoms of it? Does it mean that my baby will be prone to things.

We came home without oxygen, but only by pure luck.

[Jolie]

Congratulations on Jacob's healthy homecoming!

Yes, your little one does indeed have chronic lung disease. When preemies are born, they lack sufficient surfactant to keep their lungs from collapsing with each breath. They also lack the muscle strength to do the work of breathing on a consistent basis. That is why they require ventilation for a period of time. The problem is that the very technology that keeps them alive also does some damage to their developing lungs. The tiny little airsacs (alveoli) where oxygen enters the blood stream can be scarred and damaged by the force of air entering the lungs from the ventilator. Oxygen itself (also life-saving) is toxic to developing alveoli. The upside is that children continue to develop healthy, new alveoli until around the age of 10-12, so they will eventually "outgrow" their disease, as the number of healthy alveoli increases proportionally.

[Jolie]

Sorry, I wasn't quite finished.

Your baby is at increased risk of respiratory illness due to prematurity and chronic lung disease. Remember, preemie's immune systems aren't quite up to speed, so he's more likely to contract respiratory illnesses than afull-term baby of his age. And because of his chronic lung disease (even though it is improving every day!) he is likely to become sicker with respiratory illness than a comparable term baby.

The best care is prevention. If you are breastfeeding, continue as long as possible. Keep him away from crowds during cold and flu season. No church, no trips to the mall or grocery store. As hard as it is, the best way to show off your new baby is to invite 1 or 2 healthy visitors to your home at a time. Make sure everyone washes their hands before touching him. When he goes to the pediatrician's office, insist on having him placed in a clean exam room upon arrival. He doesn't belong in a waiting room with other children.

Also, ask your pediatrician about Synagis, which is a medication that is effective in preventing RSV, a potentially serious respiratory infection in infants and young children. It is given as a monthly injection during cold and flu season. Because of its high cost, most insurance plans will only cover it for high-risk babies. Your son should qualify for coverage.

Should your baby develop a cold, keep a close eye on him. I always slept in my babies' rooms when they were sick. Don't be afraid to call the pediatrician for advice.

And most importantly, enjoy your little miracle!