Sleep apnea is a sleeping disorder that is diagnosed for all ages. However, children can be at an increased risk of having sleep apnea compared to adults because of their smaller size and condition of their airways. Sleep apnea can result in serious health problems if left untreated. This article will discuss some of the most common causes and symptoms of sleep apnea in children, as well as some possible solutions.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a condition in which a person’s breathing is disrupted while they are asleep. This can occur several times throughout the night. There are three types of sleep apnea:
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) — this is the most common form of the disorder and is caused by a blockage in the airway, usually the back of the throat.
Central sleep apnea (CSA) — this type is more rare and is caused by the temporary failure of the brain to signal the muscles to breathe.
Complex sleep apnea syndrome (CSAS) — also known as treatment-emergent central sleep apnea, this type is caused by a combination of obstructive and central sleep apnea.
Causes of Sleep Apnea in Children
Sleep apnea can be caused by a variety of factors, many of which are the same for both children and adults. Some of the most common causes of sleep apnea in children include:
Enlarged adenoids and tonsils — This is probably the most common cause of sleep apnea in children. When the tissue in the back of the throat becomes enlarged, it can block the airway while a child is sleeping. This condition is known as obstructive sleep apnea.
Smaller airways — Some children have anatomy in their upper airways that cause their airway to be smaller than average, which increases the likelihood of sleep apnea.
Overweight or obesity — Weight gain can lead to an increased risk of sleep apnea in children because the extra weight can contribute to airway blockages.
Neuromuscular disorders — Some children may have disabilities or nerve damage in their upper airway that contributes to sleep apnea.
Symptoms of Sleep Apnea in Children
There are a number of signs and symptoms of sleep apnea in children that parents and caregivers should be aware of. Some of the most common syllables include:
Loud snoring — This is one of the most tell-tale signs of sleep apnea in children. The sound can be loud and may even be accompanied by nighttime restlessness or difficulty getting back to sleep after waking.
Pauses in breathing — Prominent pauses in a child’s breathing while sleeping can be an indicator of sleep apnea.
Mouthbreathing — Children who breathe through their mouth while awake or during sleep might be experiencing sleep apnea.
Daytime sleepiness — If your child is constantly tired or seems to have trouble concentrating on their daily activities, they may be affected by sleep apnea.
Behavior problems — Children with sleep apnea may exhibit hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention, as well as mood disorders. It is important to note that all children do not have these symptoms.
The Risk of Untreated Sleep Apnea
Parents and caregivers should take the signs and symptoms of sleep apnea in children seriously because untreated sleep apnea can put a child at risk for serious health problems, such as:
Frequent ear infections — Sleep apnea can cause structural abnormalities in the ear and eustachian tube that make children more susceptible to ear infections.
Lower achievement in school — Sleep apnea can affect a child’s ability to focus and pay attention, leading to poor performance in school.
Type 2 diabetes — Childhood sleep apnea has been linked to an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Metabolic syndrome — Left untreated, childhood sleep apnea can result in metabolic syndrome, which includes high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and high blood sugar levels, putting a child at risk of heart disease and stroke.
Cardiovascular problems — If sleep apnea goes untreated for an extended period of time, it can put a child at risk for problems related to the heart and blood vessels.
Treatments for Sleep Apnea in Children
If it is suspected that a child has sleep apnea, it is important for them to seek medical attention. There are several different treatment approaches for sleep apnea in children, including:
Adenotonsillectomy
This procedure is usually the first treatment option given to children with obstructive sleep apnea caused by enlarged adenoids or tonsils. During an adenotonsillectomy, the surgeon removes both the adenoids and tonsils.
Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP)
CPAP is a treatment for obstructive sleep apnea that uses a machine to deliver air pressure through a mask placed over the child’s nose and possibly mouth.
Preventive measures
Parents and caregivers can take steps to limit a child’s exposure to factors that may contribute to sleep apnea, such as secondhand smoke and allergens.
Weight management
If a child is overweight or obese, this can be a contributing factor in the development of sleep apnea. Parents and caregivers can promote healthy eating habits and regular exercise to aid in weight management.
Sleep apnea is a serious, but treatable, sleeping disorder. Parents and caregivers should be aware of the most common causes and symptoms of sleep apnea in children, as well as the range of treatment options available for this sleeping disorder. If diagnosed early, children can be successfully treated for sleep apnea and avoid long-term health problems.
