What is one cause of obstructed respiration in a newborn?

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia is a significant cause of obstructed respiration in a newborn due to the abnormal formation of the diaphragm. This defect allows abdominal contents to move into the thoracic cavity, which can severely compress the lungs and restrict their ability to expand adequately. As a result, the neonate may experience difficulty with ventilation and oxygenation.

In this condition, the presence of the herniated organs can lead to a shift in mediastinal structures and impaired lung development on the affected side, contributing to respiratory distress. Prompt recognition and management are crucial, as this condition can be life-threatening and typically requires surgical intervention to correct.

Other options like fluid overload, congenital heart defects, and infections may lead to respiratory issues but are not primarily characterized by physical obstruction of the airways as seen in congenital diaphragmatic hernia.