Q31.5: Congenital laryngomalacia

Congenital laryngomalacia is a birth defect that affects the cartilage of the larynx, or voice box. This cartilage normally keeps the breathing passages open, allowing the free flow of air into the lungs. However, in cases of laryngomalacia, the cartilage is soft and floppy, causing it to collapse inward when the child inhales. This leads to characteristic breathing problems, such as high-pitched noisy breathing (commonly known as stridor), particularly during feeding, excitement, and when the child is lying on his or her back. Symptoms usually appear within the first weeks of life and often worsen until the child is around 6 to 10 months old. They then gradually improve, and most children grow out of the condition by the time they are 18 to 20 months old. Although congenital laryngomalacia can be alarming to parents and caregivers, it is usually a self-limiting condition and rarely life-threatening.

Patient Disclaimer

The information provided on this page is for general educational purposes only. It is not intended for self-diagnosis and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions or concerns about your health.

If you see an ICD diagnosis code (e.g., on a medical report), be aware that doctors may also include additional indicators to express diagnostic certainty. Only a healthcare professional can interpret these codes accurately in the context of your individual case.

For a complete understanding of your condition and what the diagnosis means for you, please speak directly with your doctor.