Pediatric Sleep Apnea
Are you aware of the dangers that accompany sleep apnea in children?
Similar to adults, sleep apnea can have a significant impact on a child’s energy and attention span. At such an early age, it’s crucial to be aware of the causes and symptoms of sleep apnea in children and to be prepared to take the necessary steps to combat it.
Causes Of Sleep Apnea in Children
There is a myriad of reasons why a child may be experiencing sleep apnea symptoms. These reasons can range from being overweight to having a family history of sleep apnea.
However, muscle and skeletal development also play a role in increasing a child’s risk of developing sleep apnea.
Because children’s jaws and mouths are still developing, enlarged tonsils, jaw size, and tooth position can increase the likelihood a child will suffer from sleep apnea.
Certain medical conditions, such as Down Syndrome and Cerebral Palsy, can also increase a child’s risk of developing sleep apnea.
Symptoms To Look For
Identifying how sleep apnea affects children’s daily lives is an important step towards helping them receive proper care. Children often have difficulty expressing what’s going on inside their head, and in many instances, the symptoms are misdiagnosed as ADD or ADHD.
Symptoms of pediatric sleep apnea that we encourage parents to look out for include:
- Deep snoring with pauses and snorts
- Heavy breathing when sleeping
- Bedwetting
- Restless sleep and/or sleeping in unusual positions
- Daytime sleepiness and difficulty focusing on school or behavioral problems
In school-age children with sleep apnea, daytime fatigue can be misinterpreted as disruptive behavior in school or daydreaming. If your child’s teacher brings up these behaviors, we recommend bringing them for a sleep apnea evaluation.
What are my Child’s Sleep Apnea Treatment Options?
Recognizing the symptoms is the first step to helping your child get the sleep they deserve. Then, we’ll evaluate them to determine the next steps. In some cases, a CPAP machine can be the perfect treatment option, but your local physician can determine if this is the best option for your child.
If your child is showing signs of sleep apnea, Dr. Aldrich can refer them to a qualified specialist such as an ENT, Allergist, or Orthodontist for further treatment. Contact our office today to learn more about pediatric sleep apnea and to schedule you or your child’s consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a child die from sleep apnea?
Children with untreated sleep apnea can lead to growth stunts, worsened medical conditions, and even lead to more serious health problems. This may include high blood pressure, heart disease, and even death. That’s why it’s important to seek a sleep study at the first sign of sleep apnea. This will determine the best course of treatment for your child to ensure a long, healthy life.
Can children outgrow sleep apnea?
Many children who suffer from sleep apnea may outgrow the condition. However, children with untreated sleep apnea are more susceptible to developing behavioral problems and health complications. That’s why it’s crucial to seek treatment at the first sign of the sleep disorder.