Which feeding challenge is commonly seen in newborns with cleft lip/palate?

• A. Nasal regurgitation
• B. Hashimoto thyroiditis
• C. Jerky neck movements
• D. Jaundice

Answer: (A)

The key idea is how cleft lip/palate alters the way a baby feeds. A cleft palate disrupts the normal separation between the oral and nasal cavities, so the baby can’t create a proper seal and suction during feeding. Milk often escapes into the nasal cavity, causing nasal regurgitation, choking, and coughing, which is a classic feeding challenge in these infants. The other options aren’t tied to the mechanics of feeding with a cleft lip/palate: jaundice is a general newborn issue unrelated to the mouth’s seal during feeding, jerky neck movements suggest a neuromuscular problem, and Hashimoto thyroiditis is a thyroid condition not specific to the newborn feeding difficulty seen with cleft lip/palate.