Many parents are surprised to learn that, just like adults, children can have sleep apnea, too. This sleep-breathing disorder can cause them to not get good rest, affecting not just their mood, but their development as well. In fact, a study published in the Journal of Osteopathic Medicine in 2019 stated that between seven and 11 percent of children have a sleep-breathing disorder of some sort. Read on to learn the signs of pediatric sleep apnea and how your child may be able to benefit from treatment.
Types of Pediatric Sleep Apnea
There are two types of sleep apnea that most commonly impact children. Obstructive sleep apnea causes a pause in breathing while they sleep due to airway obstruction. This can be caused by their tongue blocking their airway or enlarged tonsils. The other type is called central apnea, which occurs when the part of their brain that signals their breathing response isn’t functioning properly. Because of this, breathing can halt as they rest.
Signs That Your Child May Have Sleep Apnea
While both types of sleep apnea have different root causes, symptoms can often overlap. Here are some signs you’ll want to look out for:
- Loud, chronic snoring
- Coughing or choking while they’re asleep
- Pauses in breathing while sleeping
- Mouth breathing
- Sleep terrors and bedwetting
- Daytime fatigue despite getting a good amount of rest
If you notice one or more of these symptoms, it’s best to have your child examined by a sleep professional. They can help decipher what’s causing your child’s symptoms and refer you for appropriate treatment or additional tests.
Treatment Options for Children’s Sleep Apnea
In order to diagnose or rule out sleep apnea, your child’s sleep specialist in Dallas may recommend a sleep study. This simply involves your child being hooked up to a variety of monitors and sensors while they sleep that allow the professional to view their eye movement, heart rate, breathing patterns, blood oxygen level, and symptoms.
If your child is diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea, treatment may include oral appliance therapy, combination therapy, surgery, or a variety of other options depending on the severity of their condition. To treat central apnea, further testing or a referral to a specialist may be necessary.
Although it can be scary for a parent to learn that their child has sleep apnea, by knowing what signs to look for and the best next steps, you can ensure that their condition has minimal impact on their health and life.
About the Practice
At Star Sleep & Wellness in Dallas, our team is comprised of several board-certified sleep specialists with years of experience. From our sleep dentist to our sleep physicians and psychologist, your child can receive the top-tier testing and treatments they deserve, all in one convenient location. To schedule a consultation, visit our website or call 844-409-4657.