Infant Feeding and Swallowing Problems (S2:E6)

Feeding an infant brings about joys and challenges for every family. In this episode, we discuss the identification and treatment of feeding and swallowing problems in infants with Laura Pickler, MD, and Nancy Creskoff Maune.

Dr. Pickler is the Chair of Family Medicine and Medical Director of the Feeding and Swallowing Program at Children’s Colorado. Nancy is an occupational therapist in the program with an extensive background in the evaluation and treatment of infants and children with feeding and swallowing problems.

 In this episode:

• Recognizing the signs of pediatric feeding and swallowing problems
• The most common presentations of feeding difficulties that primary care pediatricians encounter
• Differentiating between feeding problems versus swallowing problems
• The visual and auditory signs of swallowing problems
• Referral criteria for a videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS)
• Different approaches to feeding and swallowing issues for breast-fed versus bottle-fed babies
• Approaching feeding and swallowing problems in a breast-fed baby whose mom is returning to work
• Questions to ask and what to look for to avoid missing the big problems
• The importance of observing a feeding to evaluate meal-time behavior, stressors and physical findings
• A primary care physician’s toolbox of questions surrounding feedings
• Recommended resources on feeding and swallowing for pediatricians