Laryngomalacia

Laryngomalacia is a condition marked by inward curling or flopping of the laryngeal structures during inspiration, drawing in breath. This condition is the most common cause of stridor, or wheezing during inhalation, in newborns. Laryngolmalacia can lead to significant upper airway obstruction and feeding problems in infants. Most cases are mild and self-limiting, but other cases can require either medical or surgical intervention to control symptoms.

Diagnosis and Testing

Laryngomalacia is usually diagnosed by laryngoscopy, in which a flexible scope is passed into the child's upper airway so that the physician can see the laryngeal structures.

Treatment

The majority of patients with laryngomalacia have only mild to moderate symptoms and that can be managed without surgery. Medical management usually includes anti-reflux therapy, such as feeding modification and acid control medications, since there is a high incidence of GERD and GERD-related symptoms in laryngomalacia.

For more information about laryngomalacia, please speak with your child's physician.