Yes, Children Can Suffer From Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a disorder that is characterized by sleep disrupted by periodic pauses in breathing that lasts more than 10 seconds. It has been estimated to affect almost 22 million Americans. While much associate sleep apnea with older adults, it can also impact younger children. Learn about pediatric obstructive sleep apnea, its causes, symptoms, and ways to treat it with the professional team at Breathe Clear Institute.
Causes
Pediatric obstructive sleep apnea can be caused by enlarged tonsils and adenoids. Tonsils are glands in the back of your throat. Adenoids are similar to tonsils, forming a pad of tissue at the back of the nose. Tonsils and adenoids play a small role in the body’s immune system. In addition to the causes previously mentioned, children may also experience sleep apnea because of being born prematurely, medical conditions, being overweight, and family history.
Symptoms
Symptoms of sleep apnea in children may include restlessness, snoring, coughing, night terrors, irritability, mouth breathing, bedwetting, hyperactivity during the day, difficulty focusing, behavioral issues, and more.
Treatment Options
If you notice that your child has been struggling with their sleep and it has affected their day to day life, it is important to get help as soon as possible to determine the best treatment option and avoid more serious problems. A doctor will first give your child an evaluation and ask any questions regarding symptoms and behavior experienced. He or she may order a sleep study, where the child will be monitored as they sleep. Sensors are placed on the body that tracks an individual’s heart rate, breathing, oxygen level, brain waves, and more. Treatment options differ for each case. It is possible that a child will outgrow sleep apnea. In other circumstances, a child may be prescribed nasal steroids to help alleviate congestion. Removal of the tonsils and adenoids may be an option as well. In addition, there are now dental sleep apnea appliances available.
Schedule an Appointment With the Trusted Doctor at Breathe Clear Institute
If you believe your child is suffering from sleep apnea, contact the trusted professionals at Breathe Clear Institute. It is not uncommon for people to experience some form of sleep condition in today’s society, even children. Issues with sleep should never be overlooked and the team at Breathe Clear is experienced and knowledgeable when it comes to diagnosing and treating sleep disorders. Our doctor specializes in performing tonsillectomies and adenoidectomies. Children are able to typically recover in a week or so from both procedures. If another form of treatment is required, we will ensure your child is given the best possible care – whether it be medical or surgical. We will work with you to choose the treatment plan that’s going to best fit your child’s needs.
Let the suffering end now. Give your child the relief they need and deserve by contacting Breathe Clear Institute today to schedule an appointment. Our dedicated staff along with Dr. Davis looks forward to seeing you soon and helping improve the quality of life for your loved one. A high standard of care is only a phone call away.