What Is Laryngomalacia and Why It Matters
Laryngomalacia is the most common cause of noisy breathing in newborns. It happens when the soft tissue above the voice box (the larynx) is floppy and collapses during inhalation. The result is a high‑pitched, wheezy sound that often gets louder when the baby is lying on its back, feeding, or crying. While the condition can look scary, most infants outgrow it without surgery.
Signs Parents Should Watch For
Typical symptoms include:
- Stridor – a harsh, squeaky noise that’s louder when the baby inhales.
- Feeding difficulties or choking episodes.
- Frequent coughing or gagging.
- Difficulty gaining weight because of breathing effort.
- Worsening noise when the baby is supine.
If you notice any of these, especially poor weight gain, call your pediatrician. Early evaluation helps rule out other airway problems.
How Doctors Diagnose It
The first step is a thorough physical exam. Doctors listen to the baby’s breathing and may watch a video of the infant in different positions. If the stridor looks concerning, they often order a flexible laryngoscopy—a thin camera passed through the nose to see the larynx directly. This test shows whether the tissue is collapsing and rules out other causes like infections or structural abnormalities.
Treatment Options and What to Expect
Most cases are mild and improve as the baby’s cartilage hardens, usually by 12 to 18 months. In these situations, parents are advised to keep the baby upright during and after feedings and to use a humidifier at night.
For moderate to severe cases—especially if the infant isn’t gaining weight—doctors may recommend a surgical procedure called supraglottoplasty. The surgeon trims or stiffens the floppy tissue, which often stops the stridor within weeks. The surgery is short, done under general anesthesia, and has a high success rate.
After surgery, follow‑up appointments monitor breathing and growth. Most children recover fully and have normal voice development.
Practical Tips for Parents
Here are a few everyday tricks that can make life easier:
- Hold your baby upright for at least 30 minutes after each feeding.
- Use a cool‑mist humidifier in the nursery to keep the airway moist.
- Avoid exposing the baby to cigarette smoke or strong odors.
- Track weight gain weekly and share the data with your pediatrician.
- If your baby seems unusually fussy or breathes faster than usual, seek medical advice promptly.
Remember, laryngomalacia is usually a temporary bump in the road. With attentive care and the right medical guidance, most babies outgrow it and go on to enjoy healthy, active lives.
Kieran Lockhart, Apr, 19 2025
Lily Allen has shared the painful story of her daughter Ethel's early struggles with laryngomalacia, a rare and dangerous airway condition. The singer reflected on coping with trauma and severe anxiety after Ethel faced two major surgeries. Allen herself was also hospitalized during this emotional time.
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