Which maternal condition is a risk factor for transient tachypnea in infants?

• A. Hypertension
• B. Asthma
• C. Heart disease
• D. Thyroid disorders

Answer: (B)

Transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN) is a common respiratory condition seen in infants, particularly those born via cesarean delivery. It is characterized by rapid breathing and is typically associated with fluid retention in the lungs at birth.

Asthma in the mother can potentially complicate the pregnancy and might be linked to TTN due to a few factors. For instance, if a mother's asthma is poorly controlled during pregnancy, it could lead to fetal hypoxia, which might result in abnormal respiratory mechanisms in the infant. Additionally, medications used for asthma management and the associated risks of delivering preterm or by cesarean section may also influence the incidence of TTN.

While hypertension, heart disease, and thyroid disorders can pose risks during pregnancy and affect both maternal and fetal health, they do not have a direct association with transient tachypnea in the same way that asthma does. Therefore, asthma is the condition that directly relates as a risk factor for transient tachypnea in infants, aligning with the context of this respiratory issue.