TEF & EA
Tracheoesophogeal Fistula & Esophogeal Artesia by: Emily Bay
What are the causes of TEF/EA?
Doctors are not still not sure what causes TEF or EA. There are no patterns in history of what may have cause this. Doctors refer to it as an unexplained mystery.
Baby Born With TEF/EA
This is my sister Kynlee at birth. Because she has TEF/EA, she was born prematurely and extremely small.
Soon After Birth
Immediately after birth, the doctors will take the baby and will either go into surgery with him/her, or will hook him/her up to an IV and several more machines to prepare for surgery. (P.S. That's me with Kynlee)
Aftereffects of TEF/EA
Because of the throat dilations, sensitivity to food, and soreness of the throat, you will have to buy some special formula and a special bottle that they can drink easily from. After the TEF/EA is treated by surgery, the baby will have several follow-ups, but will ultimately be a happy baby.
Life Expectancy with Treatment
Treatments can include throat dilations, surgery, or even both. It really just depends on what your child can take/bear, and what he/she needs. If treatment is done after birth, the child will be able to live a normal life span and will be able to participate in normal, everyday activities. :)
3 Facts About TEF/EA
TEF/EA causes the trachea to attach where the esophagus should have. Because of this, all the food goes down the trachea (windpipe), which is used for breathing, This causes the child to choke on his/her food, and not get al the nutrients they need. Some important things to remember are:
-Always have a doctor on call, and get to know them
-Prepare a special diet for the first few weeks of your baby's life to avoid any throat complications
-Watch for any symptoms of soreness of the throat or discomfort