What does hypoxemia in infants develop compared to adults during respiratory distress?

Hypoxemia in infants develops more rapidly than in adults during respiratory distress due to several physiological factors. Infants have higher metabolic rates and decreased oxygen reserves compared to adults, which means they require oxygen more rapidly. Their smaller lung volumes and immature respiratory systems contribute to this vulnerability; therefore, any compromise in oxygenation can lead to significant drops in oxygen saturation levels in a short period.

Additionally, infants have less physiological reserve to compensate for hypoxemia. The combination of faster respiratory rates and the less effective ability to exchange gases means that any obstruction or condition leading to respiratory distress can result in a more immediate impact on their oxygen levels. This rapid decline can escalate more quickly than it typically would in adults, who generally have more reserve capacity to cope with respiratory challenges. These factors highlight the importance of monitoring and addressing respiratory distress in infants promptly to prevent severe hypoxemia.