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Symptoms of Respiratory distress syndrome

Laboured breathing results from low oxygen levels in the blood. The breathing muscles become tired, worsening the situation. Breathing is heavy and difficult, and the muscles in the shoulders and neck have to be used to help the normal breathing muscles.

As the condition progresses, the skin becomes blue-tinged from deoxygenated blood (cyanosis). When the efforts of the muscles fail, the level of carbon dioxide in the blood rises and, without effective treatment, can be fatal.

• RabiesRadiationRadiotherapyRaynaud's phenomenonRectal examinationRed blood countReiter's syndromeRelapsing feverRenin testRepetitive strain injuryRespiratory distress syndromeRespiratory tract infectionRespite careRestless leg syndromeRestricted growthRetinal detachmentReye's syndromeRhesus factor diseaseRheumatic feverRheumatoid arthritisRhinitisRicketsRingwormRisks and benefits of treatmentRoot canal treatmentRosaceaRoundwormRubella

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