Symptom 3: Feeding Challenges
Feeding challenges in infants with choanal atresia are a direct result of the interconnectedness of breathing and feeding. The act of feeding requires a delicate balance between using the mouth for eating and the nose for breathing. When the nasal passages are blocked, this balance is disrupted, leading to difficulty coordinating the two, resulting in prolonged feeding times and significant distress for both the infant and the caregiver.
The struggle is most evident at the bottle or breast. An infant with choanal atresia may take longer to feed, may not latch effectively, or may become fatigued before feeding is complete. These difficulties can lead to inadequate nutrition and may also impact the emotional bond between the child and the caregiver, as feeding times become fraught with frustration and anxiety.
The feeding challenges associated with choanal atresia extend beyond the immediate stress of meal times. They can have a ripple effect on the infant’s growth and weight gain. Consistent difficulties with feeding can lead to a failure to thrive, where the child does not meet the expected milestones for weight and growth.
Another concern with feeding challenges is the potential for aspiration—the inhalation of food particles into the lungs. As infants with choanal atresia struggle to coordinate breathing and swallowing, they are at an increased risk of aspiration, which can lead to pneumonia and other serious respiratory complications.
Feeding challenges are a multifaceted problem that requires a comprehensive approach. Parents and healthcare providers must work together to find solutions that ensure the infant receives adequate nutrition while also addressing the underlying cause of the feeding difficulties. (3)
