What obstacles must one overcome with a cleft palate?

MANY: There are many degrees of cleft palate from minor to very severe all with varying difficulties for the patient. Some of these include swallowing, speech, oral antral communications and can many surgeries to correct however modern techniques are amazing and there are medical grants for some of the surgeries.

A few possibilities: Cleft palate can lead to different problems in different people. Some have ear and hearing problems, tooth development and position, speech issues, early feeding issues, and sometimes psychological issues. It is best to be seen by a cleft team to help figure all of this out.

Physical, social: Physical factors include impaired speech and hearing and altered physical appearance. The impact of physical difference, the impact of treatment, the parental adjustment, and the social pressures plays major role in altering the child self esteem. Parental support must be emphasized. Friendship support also is important. Child must learn to cope with problems and develop a sense of self worth.