Cleft lip (bingot) and cleft palate (ngongo) are congenital conditions that occur when a baby’s lip or the roof of the mouth (palate) does not develop properly during pregnancy. In most cases, these conditions are immediately noticeable at birth due to physical abnormalities.
Common Symptoms of Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate
- Presence of a split or opening in the lip. This is the most recognizable sign of cleft lip. The opening can appear as a small notch or an extended split that may reach the nose. It can occur on one side (unilateral) or both sides (bilateral) of the lip.
- A visible gap or hole in the roof of the mouth. In the case of cleft palate, there is an opening in the hard or soft palate, making it difficult for the baby to feed properly. The gap can vary in size and may connect to the nasal cavity.
- Speech and language difficulties. As the child grows, speech impairments often develop. Children with cleft palate may sound nasally or have difficulty pronouncing certain sounds.
- Feeding challenges. Babies with cleft palate often struggle with feeding because they cannot create a proper seal while sucking. Milk may leak through the nose due to the opening in the palate.
- Frequent ear infections or hearing problems. The cleft palate can affect the function of the Eustachian tubes, leading to fluid buildup in the middle ear and recurrent ear infections. If untreated, this may cause hearing loss over time.
- Dental issues. Cleft lip and palate can impact tooth development. Misaligned teeth, missing teeth, or abnormalities in the gums and jaw may occur.
- Other facial abnormalities. In some cases, cleft lip and cleft palate are part of a broader genetic syndrome. This may include other facial changes, such as smaller jaw size, misshapen ears, or eye abnormalities.
- Problems in other parts of the body. If the cleft lip or palate is associated with a syndrome, additional symptoms may appear, such as developmental delays, heart defects, or limb abnormalities.
When Cleft Lip and Palate Occur in a Syndrome
Cleft lip and cleft palate can sometimes occur as part of a genetic syndrome or a group of related health conditions. If this is the case, additional symptoms can manifest, including:
- Abnormalities in ear or eye structure
- Facial asymmetry or changes in head shape
- Growth and developmental delays
- Issues affecting internal organs or limbs
Diagnosis and Next Steps
Cleft lip and cleft palate are usually diagnosed at birth based on the infant’s appearance. In some cases, they may be detected during a prenatal ultrasound. Early medical intervention is essential for managing this condition. Treatments may include:
- Surgical repair to close the cleft lip or palate, often performed within the first year of life.
- Speech therapy to address language or speech issues as the child grows.
- Hearing evaluations and interventions to manage ear-related complications.
- Dental care to address misaligned teeth or other dental problems.
While cleft lip and cleft palate present challenges, they are treatable with early medical intervention and comprehensive care. If parents notice feeding difficulties, speech issues, or other signs, consulting a pediatrician or specialist is crucial. Early treatment helps ensure a better quality of life for children with this condition.
