What Is Pediatric Sleep Apnea?

Pediatric sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that occurs when a child’s breathing is partially or entirely blocked repeatedly during sleep. It’s rare for a child to have sleep apnea, but when it happens, it can be quite serious. This is because untreated pediatric sleep apnea can result in hypertension, cardiac problems, and behavioral, adaptive, and learning difficulties, as well as other symptoms similar to those of ADHD. Actually, it could be that around 25 percent of children diagnosed with ADHD have the symptoms of sleep apnea instead.

Recently, a study indicated that the occurrence of behavioral problems in children was 4 to 5 times greater in children with incident sleep apnea and even greater in children with persistent sleep apnea. With all of this considered, it’s easy to understand the significance of poor sleep and sleep apnea in children, and it’s easy to decide to have your child treated by a pediatric sleep doctor.

It can be somewhat difficult to identify the symptoms of sleep apnea in children, and it can be easy to confuse the symptoms with other health issues. This is one of the many reasons why you should have a pediatric sleep doctor assess your child. Some of the common symptoms of sleep apnea that we find in children tend to be snoring, mouth breathing, behavioral issues, tiredness and fatigue during the daytime, trouble concentrating, low attention span, poor performance in school, breathing difficulty during the day, bedwetting, and pauses in breathing during sleep.

Additionally, childhood obesity, enlarged tonsils and/or adenoids, or a jaw joint disorder (TMJ disorder) can cause or contribute to pediatric sleep apnea. If your child is experiencing one or more of the aforementioned issues, then you should bring him or her in to see us here at Koala® Center For Sleep & TMJ Disorders.

This depends on the particular cause of a child’s sleep apnea. Sometimes a relatively simple surgery is necessary, while other times lifestyle programs can help. Often, though, the issue behind pediatric sleep apnea is fixed with oral appliance therapy. This kind of therapy can be an excellent alternative to CPAP therapy with a CPAP machine. Instead of a machine, oral appliance therapy uses a simple mouthpiece that is much more comfortable to use, especially for young patients. The appliance works by relaxing the child’s jaw, tongue, and airway so they can rest in their natural position, and often this is exactly what a child needs.

We provide this treatment here at Koala® Center For Sleep & TMJ Disorders. We’ll help you understand your child’s symptoms and sleep much better, and if we determine that your child has sleep apnea, we’ll be able to provide a lasting solution and help your child sleep much more soundly.

While pediatric sleep apnea cannot always be entirely prevented, there are several proactive measures parents can take to reduce the risk or severity of the condition. One of the most effective ways to prevent sleep apnea is by ensuring that children maintain a healthy weight. Obesity is a significant risk factor for sleep apnea, as excess weight can lead to fatty tissue accumulation around the neck and airway, causing obstructions during sleep. Encouraging regular physical activity and a balanced diet is crucial to preventing obesity and managing the condition.

In addition, managing allergies and nasal congestion can greatly reduce the symptoms of sleep apnea. Allergies, particularly seasonal or environmental allergies, can lead to nasal congestion, which can obstruct the airways, making breathing difficult during sleep. Parents should focus on keeping the child’s sleep environment clean and free from allergens, such as dust mites and pet dander. Regular cleaning, using allergen-proof pillowcases, and maintaining proper humidity levels can help improve airflow and minimize airway blockages.

Parents should seek medical attention if they notice any signs of pediatric sleep apnea in their child, especially during sleep. Common symptoms include loud snoring, gasping for air, or noticeable pauses in breathing during sleep. These interruptions in breathing can disturb the child’s ability to get restful sleep, leading to significant daytime consequences. Other signs to watch for include daytime sleepiness, difficulty concentrating, irritability, mood swings, and even behavioral issues such as hyperactivity or poor performance in school. These symptoms can often be mistaken for other conditions, which is why it’s important to consult a sleep specialist.

If a child exhibits any of these signs, parents should schedule a consultation with a sleep expert to rule out or confirm the presence of sleep apnea. Early intervention is critical in preventing long-term health complications such as developmental delays, cognitive impairments, and cardiovascular problems that can result from untreated sleep apnea.

At Koala Center for Sleep Disorders, our sleep team specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of pediatric sleep apnea. We offer comprehensive evaluations, diagnostic tests, and personalized treatment plans to address your child’s specific needs. Early diagnosis and treatment ensure better sleep quality, leading to healthier growth and improved overall well-being. For more information, please contact us today or request an appointment online. We have convenient locations in Bloomington IL, Peoria/Dunlap IL, El Paso TX, and Wausau WI.