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Overview

Esophageal atresia (EA) is a birth defect in which the baby’s esophagus (the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach) does not form properly before birth. For babies with EA, the esophagus has two separate parts – an upper and lower part – that do not connect. This makes it impossible for the baby to get enough nutrition by mouth because they cannot pass food from the mouth to the stomach.

Types of Esophageal Atresia

There are four types of EA:

Symptoms of Esophageal Atresia

EA is almost always diagnosed in the first few days following birth. Signs and symptoms of EA can include:

When to see a doctor

If your baby is having any trouble with feeding, you should seek medical attention immediately.

Causes of Esophageal Atresia

EA is caused by developmental problems before a baby is born.

Who’s at risk

There is no known reason why some babies develop EA. However, up to half of babies with EA are also born with other birth defects, such as:


Request an Appointment

Contact an Orlando Health doctor

If you suspect that your child may have esophageal artesia, make an appointment with an Orlando Health pediatrician today so your child can start on the road to improved health.