Cleft lip and palate are both birth
defects that occur when a baby’s lip or mouth do not form properly during
pregnancy. Yes! This happens while a baby is developing in the uterus and then
born with the defects. Together both of these defects are called “orofacial
clefts’’. If you know anyone with these birth defects then visit Marham.pk and
book an online appointment with the best pediatric surgeon In Karachi.
What Are Cleft Lip And Palate?
During the 6th to 10th week of pregnancy, body tissues, special cells, and
tissues of baby’s upper jaw, nose, and mouth normally join together to make the
face and the roof of the upper mouth and the upper lip. If this doesn’t happen
properly and the tissue that makes up the lip doesn’t join completely before
birth, a baby could be born with a cleft lip or plate and sometimes even both.
- Cleft lip is an opening in the upper lip. This opening can be a small slit or it can also be a large opening that goes through the lip into the nose.
- A cleft lip can occur on one or both sides of the lip or sometimes in the middle of the lip. However, this occurs only in rare cases.
- In babies with cleft palate, there is an opening between the roof of the mouth and the nose. To discuss any of such case with the best ENT specialist in Paskistan, you can visit Marham.pk.
What Causes These Birth Defects?
The causes of orofacial defects among infants are unknown. Doctors still don’t
know exactly why a baby develops cleft lip and palate. However, they believe
that it may be a combination of certain factors which are:
Genes:
It is believed that both mother and a father can pass on a gene or genes that
cause cleft lip and palate. It is always best to consult with the geneticist to
get medical assistance.
Environmental Factors:
There are outside influences that can play their part to develop cleft lip and
palate among children. In particular, usage of certain medicines can affect the
proper development of a child. Pregnant women who use medicines to control
seizures may be more likely to have a baby with cleft lip or palate.
Malnutrition:
Not getting right nutrition during pregnancy may also influence the development
of a child in the uterus. That’s why it is more important for mothers to get
vitamins like folic acid.
Risk Factors:
According to many reports and studies, certain risk factors can increase the
chance of having a baby with orofacial defects (cleft lip and palate). If
you’re expecting a child then get your regular checkup with the gynecologist
and take control over these risk factors.
- Smoking
- Diabetes
What Happens If Someone Has A Cleft
Lip And Palate?
The palate is supposed to stop the food and liquid from going up the nose when
eating. Of course, if someone born with a defect then he may have a few health
issues, such as:
- Trouble breastfeeding
- Dental problems (cavities, badly formed teeth)
- Ear infection
- Hearing loss from repeated infections
- Speech problems like trouble pronouncing words
- Birth defects like a heart problem
- Growth disorders
- Muscle weakness
- Learning difficulties
Most babies with cleft lip and palate have surgeries to close the hole usually in the first few months of life. It is normally recommended between 9 to 12 months of age. Some children need additional surgical procedures as they get older. But with the treatment, they do well and lead a healthy life. If you see someone with these birth defects has issues with self-esteem, then support them in every possible manner. For more details and an online consultation with the best plastic surgeon in Lahore, visit Marham.pk.
