Question
Does a baby’s throat sound with phlegm indicate congenital laryngeal cartilage softening? What symptoms should be noted?
Answer
When a newborn has a throat sound resembling phlegm, it may be a symptom of laryngeal cartilage softening. Medically known as laryngeal cartilage softening, this condition is characterized by the deformation of the larynx during inhalation, leading to difficulty breathing. The sound is caused by the vibration of the arytenoid folds at the entrance of the larynx. In addition to laryngeal cartilage softening, weak or malformed tracheal cartilage rings may also cause similar symptoms. Parents should monitor their baby’s breathing condition and seek medical advice promptly if they notice any abnormalities.