Sleep Apnea In Children

When most parents think of sleep apnea, they tend to consider it a condition that only affects adults. But surprisingly, it is believed to affect up to 3% of children worldwide. Proper diagnosis can sometimes be difficult as many of the symptoms such as hyperactivity, bed wetting, and upper respiratory infections occur with other health issues. Listed below are some of the most common questions and their answers.

What is childhood sleep apnea? Childhood sleep apnea is a breathing condition in which the child’s upper airway becomes blocked for a period of time while sleeping. It upsets their normal sleep pattern and if left untreated can even be life threatening.

What causes it? Sleep apnea is commonly caused by a facial structure in the child that narrows the airway, enlarged tonsils, or anything else that cause excessive tissue in the airway.

What are the symptoms? Symptoms include pauses or interruptions in breathing while sleeping, daytime sleepiness, frequent bed wetting, excessive sweating when asleep, ADHD like symptoms, morning headaches, personality changes, confusion when awakened, below normal growth rates, developmental delays, large amounts of upper respiratory infections, and an unusual arched sleeping position.

How is it diagnosed? Your doctor may recommend a sleep test called a polysomnograph which will help in proper diagnosis. There tests are either conducted at home with assistance from a technician or at a sleep clinic.

What are the treatment options? Treatment in children can be as simple as removing the tonsils or utilization of a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine. Other parents have had success with more unconventional methods such as strengthening the muscles in the airway through singing.