What does respiratory distress in neonates NOT typically result from?

Respiratory distress in neonates can result from a variety of conditions that affect their ability to breathe effectively. However, normal fetal development is not a cause of respiratory distress. During fetal development, the lungs are filled with fluid, and the respiratory system is not fully functional until birth. As the neonate transitions to breathing air, the lungs clear this fluid, and normal respiratory function begins.

Conditions such as pneumothorax (which involves the presence of air in the pleural space) and tracheoesophageal fistula (an abnormal connection between the trachea and esophagus) can indeed lead to significant respiratory distress due to impaired airways or lung mechanics. Likewise, hypothermia can cause respiratory issues as it affects overall physiology and can lead to changes in respiratory drive.

Thus, while other medical conditions may lead to respiratory complications in neonates, normal fetal development is a natural and expected process that does not contribute to respiratory distress.