Transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN) is a term for a mild
respiratory problem of babies that begins after birth and lasts
about three days. Other terms for TTN are "wet lungs" or type II
respiratory distress syndrome. It is thought that slow
absorption of the fluid in the fetal lungs causes TTN. This
fluid makes taking in oxygen harder and the baby breathes faster
to compensate. Only a small percentage of all newborns develop
TTN. Although premature babies can have TTN, most babies with
this problem are full-term. The condition may be more likely to
develop in babies delivered by cesarean section because the
fluid in the lungs does not get squeezed out as in a vaginal
birth. The following are the most common symptoms of transient
tachypnea of the newborn. However, each baby may experience
symptoms differently. Symptoms may include: The symptoms of TTN
may resemble other conditions or medical problems. Always
consult your baby's physician for a diagnosis. Chest x-rays are
often used to help diagnose TTN. O