what is laryngomalasia. how does it effects baby?

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Laryngomalacia is a congenital condition where the soft, immature cartilage of the larynx (voice box) collapses inward during breathing, causing airway obstruction. It is the most common cause of noisy breathing (stridor) in newborns and infants.

How It Affects Babies: Noisy Breathing: The most noticeable symptom is noisy breathing, often described as a "stridor," which is a high-pitched sound during inhalation. It usually becomes more noticeable when the baby is upset, feeding, or lying on their back. Difficulty Feeding: Some babies with laryngomalacia may have trouble feeding, as the airway obstruction can make sucking and swallowing difficult. Gagging or Choking: In more severe cases, the obstruction can lead to frequent gagging or choking during feeding. Growth Concerns: In rare cases, if the breathing difficulty is significant, it can lead to poor weight gain or growth, but this is uncommon. Worsening Symptoms: Symptoms may worsen when the baby is lying down, crying, or after feeding, but they typically improve when the baby is upright. Prognosis:

In most cases, laryngomalacia improves on its own as the baby grows, typically by 18-24 months, as the larynx becomes firmer and the airway opens up. The condition is often self-limiting, meaning it resolves with age.

When to Seek Medical Help: If the noisy breathing seems severe or is associated with feeding problems, poor weight gain, or frequent respiratory infections, consult a pediatrician or an ENT specialist. Severe cases may require medical intervention, but most babies with laryngomalacia improve with conservative management.

If you suspect your baby has laryngomalacia, it’s best to get a proper evaluation from a pediatrician to confirm the diagnosis and ensure appropriate monitoring and care.