What are the symptoms of oesophageal atresia?
Babies with oesophageal atresia may show several signs, including:
- Having trouble swallowing
- Drooling a lot
- Coughing or choking during feeding
- Turning blue while feeding
- Recurrent cough or lung problems
What causes oesophageal atresia?
The exact cause of oesophageal atresia is not always known. It happens when the oesophagus does not form properly while the baby is developing in the womb. It can occur alone or with other birth defects.
How common is oesophageal atresia?
Oesophageal atresia is relatively rare, occurring in about 1 in every 3,500 births. This means that while it isn’t very common, it does happen.
Who is more likely to get oesophageal atresia?
Some factors that may increase the chances of a baby being born with oesophageal atresia include:
- Having a family history of the condition
- Being born prematurely
- Having other birth defects
How can I treat oesophageal atresia?
Treatment usually involves surgery to connect the two ends of the oesophagus. This is often done shortly after birth. After the surgery, many babies can eat and drink normally.
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How to live with oesophageal atresia?
For those who have had surgery, regular check-ups with healthcare providers are important to monitor development and address any ongoing issues. Support from family and groups can also be helpful.
What’s the outlook for oesophageal atresia?
Most babies who have surgery for oesophageal atresia go on to live healthy lives. Some may have ongoing issues, but many can eat and drink normally and grow up without major problems.
Final thoughts
Oesophageal atresia is a serious condition but can often be treated successfully. If you have any concerns, it’s important to speak to a GP or healthcare provider.
