Is It Possible for Children to Have Sleep Apnea?
Are you concerned about your child’s nighttime breathing patterns? Do they snore loudly or experience pauses in breathing during sleep? If so, your child may be suffering from pediatric obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a potentially serious condition often mistaken for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Untreated OSA can have far-reaching consequences on your child’s health, growth, and development.
At the Center for Dental Sleep Health in Nashua, NH, our sleep dentist, Dr. Stephen Ura, is dedicated to raising awareness about pediatric sleep apnea and providing effective treatment solutions. Schedule an appointment by calling (603) 886-4300 and take the first step towards ensuring your child’s restful nights and overall well-being.
How Many Children Are Diagnosed with Sleep Apnea?
Obstructive sleep apnea affects approximately one to four percent of children between the ages of two and eight.
Alarmingly, nearly 25 percent of children diagnosed with ADHD may be suffering from undiagnosed sleep apnea, highlighting the importance of an accurate diagnosis.
Misdiagnosing: Sleep Apnea or ADHD?
If your child has been diagnosed with ADHD, it’s crucial to explore the possibility of a misdiagnosis. Behavioral issues, inattentiveness, and hyperactivity can stem from disrupted sleep patterns caused by OSA.
Only a comprehensive sleep study can accurately determine the underlying condition and pave the way for effective treatment.
Signs and Symptoms of Pediatric Sleep Apnea
Unlike in adults, pediatric sleep apnea is often more challenging to identify. The most common factors contributing to OSA in children are enlarged tonsils and adenoids. Watch out for these telltale signs:
- Loud snoring or gasping during sleep
- Restless sleep and frequent awakenings
- Daytime sleepiness and fatigue
- Bedwetting or night sweats
- Behavioral issues and learning difficulties
- Poor growth and development
Risks and Consequences of Untreated Sleep Apnea
If left unaddressed, pediatric sleep apnea can lead to serious health complications, including:
- Cardiovascular problems
- Metabolic disorders (e.g., diabetes)
- Impaired growth and development
- Obesity
- Cognitive and academic challenges
Risk factors that may increase a child’s susceptibility to OSA include family history, low birth weight, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, sickle cell disease, and neuromuscular disorders
Accurate Diagnosis: The Key to Effective Treatment
The first step in managing pediatric sleep apnea is a comprehensive sleep study conducted by an experienced sleep specialist. At the Center for Dental Sleep Health, Dr. Ura collaborates with renowned sleep physicians to ensure accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans.
During the sleep study, your child’s brain wave activity, breathing patterns, snoring, oxygen levels, heart rate, and muscle activity will be closely monitored overnight. This thorough evaluation provides valuable insights into the severity and underlying causes of your child’s sleep apnea.
Personalized Treatment Solutions
If your child is diagnosed with sleep apnea, several treatment options may be recommended, depending on the underlying cause and severity of the condition:
- Tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy (surgical removal of enlarged tonsils and adenoids)
- Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy
- Oral appliances (custom-fitted mouthpieces that reposition the jaw and tongue)
Dr. Ura specializes in designing comfortable and discreet oral appliances, providing a convenient and effective alternative for children with mild-to-moderate sleep apnea.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the long-term effects of untreated pediatric sleep apnea?
Untreated sleep apnea in children can have serious long-term consequences, including developmental delays, behavioral and emotional problems, academic underachievement, and an increased risk of chronic health conditions like cardiovascular disease and metabolic disorders.
Can sleep apnea in children be cured?
In some cases, pediatric sleep apnea resolves itself as the child grows and their airways develop. However, in many instances, treatment is necessary to alleviate symptoms and prevent long-term complications. Early intervention and appropriate treatment can significantly improve a child’s quality of life and overall health.
What are the risk factors for pediatric sleep apnea?
Common risk factors for sleep apnea in children include enlarged tonsils and adenoids, obesity, craniofacial abnormalities, neuromuscular disorders, and genetic predisposition. Environmental factors like secondhand smoke exposure and allergies can also contribute to the development of sleep apnea in children.
How can parents help prevent sleep apnea in children?
While some risk factors are beyond control, parents can take proactive steps to reduce their child’s risk of developing sleep apnea. These include maintaining a healthy weight, promoting good sleep hygiene, addressing allergies or respiratory issues, and seeking prompt medical attention for snoring or breathing difficulties during sleep.
Take Action for Your Child’s Health
If you suspect your child may be suffering from sleep apnea, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Call the Center for Dental Sleep Health at (603) 886-4300 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a consultation with Dr. Ura. We serve families in Hudson, Merrimack, Milford, and surrounding areas in New Hampshire, offering comprehensive solutions for sleep disorders.