4 Questions to Ask About Children’s Sleep-Disordered Breathing
Sleep-related breathing disorders in children, like obstructive sleep apnea, disrupt normal breathing during sleep, potentially affecting their sleep quality and development. Common symptoms include loud snoring, pauses in breathing, and restless sleep. If untreated, these conditions can lead to behavioral problems and developmental challenges. At Koala® Center For Sleep & TMJ Disorders, tailored evaluations and treatments are available to help improve your child’s sleep and overall health. For more information, please contact us today or book an appointment online now! We have convenient locations in Bloomington IL, Peoria/Dunlap IL, Mishawaka IN, Kansas City MO, El Paso TX, and Wausau WI.
Table of Contents:
What are the examples of sleep-related breathing disorders?
How common is sleep-disordered breathing in kids?
What is the difference between sleep-disordered breathing and sleep apnea?
What are the consequences of untreated sleep-disordered breathing in children?
Sleep-related breathing disorders in children can range from mild to severe. Persistent, loud snoring is often the first sign of a potential breathing problem. While occasional snoring isn’t usually a concern, nightly snoring is a reason to have your child assessed by a doctor.
An example of a serious condition that causes sleep-related breathing issues is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). During sleep, the airway becomes partially or fully blocked in patients with OSA, leading to breathing pauses, gasping, or choking. In addition, while less common in children, central sleep apnea is another severe form of sleep-disordered breathing.
These conditions can lead to fragmented sleep, causing daytime symptoms such as irritability, hyperactivity, and concentration problems. If you suspect your child has a sleep-related breathing disorder, consult with a doctor for evaluation and appropriate management.
Sleep-disordered breathing is more common in children than many people know. Current research suggests that about 1 to 5% of children suffer from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), one of the most severe forms of sleep-disordered breathing. However, milder forms, such as habitual snoring and upper airway resistance syndrome (UARS), are even more prevalent.
The likelihood of developing sleep-disordered breathing can increase due to various factors, including enlarged tonsils and adenoids, obesity, allergies, or certain craniofacial abnormalities. Between the ages of 2 and 8, kids are particularly susceptible, as this is when tonsillar tissue tends to be the largest relative to the size of the airway. However, sleep-disordered breathing can affect kids of all ages, even infants. As sleep-disordered breathing often goes undiagnosed, it’s essential to speak to a specialist if you notice warning signs in your child.
In children, sleep disordered breathing often begins with simple snoring, which can progress if left unchecked. Snoring may not always be harmful, but persistent, loud snoring can be an early sign of more severe issues.
Obstructive sleep apnea is one of the most severe types of sleep-disordered breathing, involving repeated episodes of partial or complete blockage of the airway during sleep. These blockages can lead to pauses in breathing, gasping, and restless sleep. Unlike simple snoring, OSA disrupts the natural sleep cycle, causing fragmented sleep and leaving an impact on daytime functioning.
In short, sleep apnea is a specific, severe type of sleep-disordered breathing characterized by actual pauses in breathing and a significant impact on sleep quality. Other forms of sleep disordered breathing may not involve full breathing pauses but can still result in poor sleep and symptoms like daytime sleepiness or behavioral issues.
Untreated sleep-disordered breathing can have serious consequences for a child’s health and development. Poor-quality sleep can lead to both short-term and long-term effects, including:
● Emotional distress – Poor sleep can result in mood swings, irritability, and increased stress levels. A child who isn’t getting restful sleep may appear more emotional, as they will have a harder time regulating their mood throughout the day.
● Sleepiness and fatigue – Daytime sleepiness in children can affect their ability to participate in activities, from school to playtime. They may appear overly tired or have low energy levels.
● Cognitive and behavioral problems – Children with untreated sleep disorders often struggle with concentration, memory, and learning.
● Physical health concerns – Long-term sleep-disordered breathing can lead to growth problems due to the disruption of normal sleep patterns, which are crucial for hormone regulation. Sleep apnea is also linked to a heightened risk of developing metabolic problems, like insulin resistance or obesity. Additionally, the repeated drops in blood oxygen levels can strain the cardiovascular system.
To prevent the consequences of sleep-disordered breathing, it’s important to have your child evaluated by a sleep doctor if they exhibit concerning symptoms. Our dedicated experts can provide an accurate diagnosis, help you manage your child’s sleep condition, and answer your questions.
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