Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that affects both adults and children. It can cause serious health problems and is often overlooked in children. In this article, we will discuss the causes and symptoms of sleep apnea in children and the various treatment options available.
Causes of Sleep Apnea in Children
Sleep apnea in children occurs when the muscles in the back of the throat become relaxed during sleep, causing the airway to become blocked. In some cases, this blockage can be caused by an underlying medical condition, such as allergies, tonsils and adenoids that are enlarged, or obesity. Sometimes, it is related to how a child’s face and airway were shaped or formed during development. In children, sleep apnea is most commonly associated with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS), which results from partial or complete upper airway obstruction. It can also be related to very low levels of oxygen in the blood, which occurs when a child’s upper airway is obstructed and breathing is interrupted.
Symptoms of Sleep Apnea in Children
There are several signs of sleep apnea to look for in children. These vary depending on the severity of the sleep apnea condition. Some of the most common signs of sleep apnea in children include:
- Loud snoring
- Witnessed pauses in breathing during sleep
- Restless sleep or body movements
- Gasping for breath or struggling to breathe
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Difficulty concentrating and behavioral problems at school
If your child is exhibiting any of these symptoms, it is important to talk to their healthcare provider. If left untreated, sleep apnea in children can lead to poor growth, difficulty in school, and chronic health problems.
Treatment for Sleep Apnea in Children
There are several treatment options for children who have sleep apnea. The specific treatment prescribed will depend on the underlying cause and severity of the sleep apnea. Here are some of the most common treatment options:
- Surgery: If tonsils and/or adenoids are causing the obstruction, your doctor may recommend surgery to remove these tissues.
- Positive airway pressure: Positive airway pressure (PAP) machines can help open up a child’s airway during sleep by delivering a continuous flow of air.
- Oral appliances: For children with mild sleep apnea, oral appliances such as mouthguards can help prevent the airway from becoming obstructed.
- Positional therapy: Sleeping in a particular position can sometimes alleviate symptoms of sleep apnea.
- Weight management: If your child is overweight, losing weight can help improve their sleep apnea symptoms.
- Medication: Some medications can be prescribed to help keep the airway open and/or reduce the severity of sleep apnea symptoms.
If your child has been diagnosed with sleep apnea, it is important to work with their healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment.
Conclusion
Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that affects an estimated 2-3% of children in the United States. It can cause serious health problems and is often overlooked in children. If left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to poor growth, difficulty in school, and chronic health problems. It is important to recognize the signs of sleep apnea in children and work with your healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment.
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