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Childrens Sleep-Disordered Breathing Treatment

Childrens Sleep-Disordered Breathing Treatment

Treatment for children’s Sleep-Disordered Breathing focuses on improving nighttime breathing issues like snoring or sleep apnea in children. Depending on the condition’s severity, options may include lifestyle changes, the use of medical devices, or surgical interventions. At Koala® Center For Sleep & TMJ Disorders, tailored treatment plans are developed to ensure children can achieve healthier, more restful sleep and overall improved well-being. For more information, please contact us today or book an appointment online now! We have convenient locations in Peoria/Dunlap IL, Mishawaka IN, and Wausau WI.

Pediatric Sleep-Disordered Breathing Treatment Near Me in Peoria – Dunlap IL, Mishawaka IN, and Wausau WI.
Pediatric Sleep-Disordered Breathing Treatment Near Me in Peoria – Dunlap IL, Mishawaka IN, and Wausau WI.

Table of Contents:

What is sleep-disordered breathing in kids?
What are the diagnostic criteria for sleep-disordered breathing in children?
How do you treat children’s breathing-related sleep disorders?
What is the sleep screening tool for children?

What is sleep-disordered breathing in kids?


Sleep-disordered breathing is a spectrum of breathing problems affecting both children and adults during sleep, ranging from snoring to more severe conditions like obstructive or central sleep apnea. When kids are suffering from sleep-disordered breathing, they may exhibit concerning symptoms, such as restless sleep, snoring, and, in some cases, pauses in breathing. Common risk factors for sleep-related breathing issues include enlarged tonsils or adenoids, nasal congestion, obesity, and a naturally narrow airway.

In addition, the symptoms of sleep-disordered breathing can spill over into daytime behavior, often leading to hyperactivity, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. If left untreated, sleep-related breathing issues can impact a child’s growth, cognitive development, and emotional regulation.

Due to the consequences of untreated sleep-disordered breathing, it’s crucial to identify the signs early and seek the support of a expert. If your child is experiencing mood swings, snoring, daytime drowsiness, and frequent awakening, bringing them in for an evaluation is strongly recommended.

What are the diagnostic criteria for sleep-disordered breathing in children?


When assessing your child during the diagnostic appointment, the sleep doctor will ask you questions about your reason for bringing them in. Some of the criteria that sleep doctors look for when making a sleep-disordered breathing diagnosis include noisy breathing during sleep, frequent disruptions to sleep, and physical indicators.

Parents of children with sleep-disordered breathing commonly report pauses in breathing, snorting, or choking noises. In addition, children with such conditions often sleep in unusual positions (such as with the neck extended), as well as sweat excessively during sleep.

The doctor will assess the child for physical indicators, such as a deviated septum, enlarged tonsils, adenoids, or signs of nasal obstruction. If the doctor needs more insight into the child’s symptoms and sleep patterns, the next step is a home sleep study.

How do you treat children’s breathing-related sleep disorders?


The treatment for children’s sleep-disordered breathing depends on the severity and root cause of the issue. Here are some common approaches:

Behavioral adjustments – In milder cases, parents will be asked to help their child make adjustments like changing sleep positions or using nasal strips to aid better airflow during sleep.

Lifestyle changes – For young patients where obesity is a factor, parents are encouraged to help their child adopt a healthy diet and get active to manage sleep-disordered breathing. Additionally, managing allergies with medications or nasal sprays is recommended for targeting congestion to promote better breathing during sleep.

Orthodontic interventions – Sometimes, orthodontic treatments like rapid maxillary expansion (RME) are required to widen the upper jaw to successfully improve airflow in the airway.

Adenotonsillectomy – This surgical procedure is performed to remove enlarged tonsils and adenoids, which are frequently responsible for airway blockage. This treatment can significantly improve breathing during sleep and is highly effective in many cases.

The best treatment approach in your child’s case will be influenced by the specific condition affecting them, the severity of their symptoms, and their general wellness. Once the provider establishes a diagnosis, they can create a treatment plan designed with your child’s unique needs in mind.

What is the sleep screening tool for children?


The BEARS sleep screening tool is used to assess sleep problems in children. It covers five key areas of sleep health to identify potential sleep disturbances:

Bedtime problems – This section explores whether the child has difficulty falling asleep, resistance to going to bed, or anxiety around bedtime.

Excessive daytime sleepiness – Questions in this section focus on daytime sleepiness, napping habits, and struggles with staying awake during school or activities, which could indicate poor nighttime sleep quality.

● Awakenings during the night
– This portion checks for frequent or prolonged awakenings, which can signal issues like sleep apnea or nightmares.

Regularity and duration of sleep – This assesses the child’s typical sleep schedule, including bedtime, wake time, and total sleep duration, to identify irregular patterns.

Snoring – Snoring is one of the most prevalent signs of sleep-disordered breathing, so this section is dedicated to noting loud breathing during sleep.

Sleep doctors use the BEARS tool among other screening tools to accurately assess children’s symptoms during the diagnostic process.

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