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How do I know if I have Esophageal Atresia?

What signs or symptoms may make you suspect you may have Esophageal Atresia. People who have experience in Esophageal Atresia offer advice of what things may make you suspicious and which doctor you should go to to receive treatment

Do I have Esophageal Atresia?

Esophageal atresia is a rare congenital condition where the esophagus, the tube that connects the throat to the stomach, does not develop properly. It is typically diagnosed shortly after birth when a newborn experiences difficulty feeding or swallowing.



Symptoms:


The most common symptoms of esophageal atresia include:



  • Excessive drooling: Infants with esophageal atresia may have difficulty swallowing saliva, leading to increased drooling.

  • Choking or gagging: When attempting to feed, the baby may choke, gag, or cough frequently.

  • Bluish color: If the esophagus is completely blocked, the baby's skin may turn bluish due to lack of oxygen.

  • Frothy bubbles in the mouth: Some babies may have frothy bubbles in their mouth or nose due to an abnormal connection between the esophagus and the windpipe.

  • Difficulty feeding: Infants with esophageal atresia may have trouble swallowing, leading to poor weight gain.



Diagnosis:


If esophageal atresia is suspected, a series of tests will be conducted to confirm the diagnosis. These may include:



  • X-ray: A contrast material is used to visualize the esophagus and identify any blockages or abnormalities.

  • Endoscopy: A thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted through the mouth to examine the esophagus and determine the location and extent of the atresia.

  • Echocardiogram: This ultrasound test is performed to check for associated heart defects, as they are often seen in conjunction with esophageal atresia.



Treatment:


Esophageal atresia requires surgical intervention to repair the abnormal connection. The specific procedure depends on the type and severity of the atresia. Surgery aims to reconnect the two ends of the esophagus and ensure proper swallowing function. In some cases, a temporary feeding tube may be placed until the baby can feed normally.



Prognosis:


The prognosis for infants with esophageal atresia has significantly improved over the years. With early diagnosis and appropriate surgical intervention, most babies can lead normal lives. However, long-term follow-up is necessary to monitor for any complications or associated conditions.


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Our daughter was born with EA/TEF, Type C, short gap in May 2015. Our journey since has been a roller coaster. She has had several strictures, complications from G tube placement which resulted in emergency life-saving surgery, and has also received ...

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