What is the Suck/Swallow/Breath Synchrony?

In this episode, we explore the fascinating concept of suck-swallow-breathe (SSB) synchrony in infant feeding and its significance in overall development. We'll delve into the rhythmical pattern of SSB synchrony, its impact on feeding safety and efficiency, and the potential challenges that can arise when this coordination is disrupted.

‌- Suck-Swallow-Breathe (SSB) synchrony is the coordinated pattern of sucking, swallowing, and breathing during infant feeding.

- SSB synchrony allows infants to eat and breathe without choking and facilitates their interaction with the environment.

- Challenges in SSB synchrony can arise in both normally developing infants (25-45%) and developmentally delayed infants (up to 80%).

- Nutritive sucking involves suction and expression, with suction drawing milk into the mouth and expression ejecting milk through tongue movements.

- Swallowing occurs in oral, pharyngeal, and esophageal phases, and a delayed action at any step can disrupt the process.

- Observing the SSB pattern is crucial to identify any feeding difficulties or discomfort in infants.

- Engaging in oral motor skills and sensory activities, such as brushing teeth and tongue, blowing bubbles, and introducing open cup drinking, can support development.

- The proper coordination of chew, swallow, and breathe sets the foundation for overall growth, development, and safe feeding.

- Understanding SSB synchrony helps parents and caregivers provide appropriate support and ensure the well-being of infants.

USEFUL LINKS:

https://shereewertz.com/social

https://shereewertz.com/15-min

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4530609/