Laryngomalacia: A common condition in babies

Laryngomalacia is a common condition that affects babies, especially during the first months of life. It is characterized by the collapse or narrowing of the structures of the larynx, which makes breathing difficult and can cause feeding and growth problems. We will explore in detail what laryngomalacia is, its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options, to provide a full understanding of this condition that can cause parental concern.

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What is Laryngomalacia?

Laryngomalacia is a condition that affects the larynx, the tube-like structure in the throat that contains the vocal cords. In babies with laryngomalacia, the structures of the larynx are more flexible and more prone to collapse or narrow during inspiration. This can make it difficult for air to get into the lungs and cause a characteristic noisy breathing sound, known as stridor. Laryngomalacia is the most common cause of stridor in babies.

Causes

The exact cause of laryngomalacia is not fully known, but it is believed to be related to the abnormal development of laryngeal structures during pregnancy. Some factors that can contribute to laryngomalacia include:

Immature cartilage of the larynx: In babies with laryngomalacia, the cartilage of the larynx may be softer and more flexible than normal, increasing the chance of collapse.

Larynx position: In some cases, the position of the larynx in the neck may be more drooping than usual, contributing to narrowing of the airway.

Symptoms of Laryngomalacia

The symptoms of laryngomalacia usually appear during the first months of life and can vary in severity. Some of the more common symptoms include:

• Inspiratory stridor : It is the characteristic noisy breathing sound that occurs during inspiration . It may be more noticeable when the baby is fussy or crying.
• Difficulty breathing: Babies with laryngomalacia may have difficulty breathing , especially during feeding or while sleeping.
• Feeding problems: Some babies with laryngomalacia may have difficulty feeding due to difficulty breathing and sucking at the same time.
• Failure to thrive: In more severe cases, laryngomalacia can interfere with adequate food intake, which can result in failure to thrive.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of laryngomalacia is generally based on clinical evaluation of symptoms and observation of stridor during medical consultation. In some cases, additional tests may be necessary, such as a laryngoscopy, which allows the doctor to directly visualize the structures of the larynx.

Treatment

In most cases, laryngomalacia gradually improves as the baby grows and the structures of the larynx get stronger. However, in more severe cases or when symptoms significantly interfere with feeding and growth, additional treatments may be necessary. Some treatment options include:

Monitoring and Supportive Care: In many cases, a monitoring and supportive care approach is recommended, which may include keeping the baby in a comfortable position during feedings, avoiding exposure to cigarette smoke, and monitoring the baby's growth and development. .

Medications: In some cases, medications may be prescribed to help reduce airway inflammation and improve breathing .

Surgery: In very rare and severe cases, when symptoms do not improve with other treatment options, surgery may be considered to correct the collapsing structures of the larynx .

If you have concerns about your baby 's respiratory health, it's important to see a medical professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Remember that each case is unique and a doctor will be able to provide you with the necessary guidance and care.