Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that affects children, causing breathing to stop and start repeatedly during sleep. This can lead to restless nights and daytime drowsy behavior. If left untreated, it can impact a child's overall health and development. "Sleep apnea in children, or pediatric obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), affects about 1 to 6% of kids, with boys being more commonly affected than girls. It tends to show up more as children grow, especially between the ages of 3 and 6," says Matthew M. Meigs, MD, Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT), at ARC Far West Medical Tower in Austin.
What causes sleep apnea in children?
The most common cause of pediatric sleep apnea is an airway obstruction due to enlarged tonsils or adenoids. Other factors include obesity, neurological issues, and poor sleeping posture, which can make it harder for a child to breathe properly at night.
What are the common symptoms of sleep apnea?
Children with sleep apnea may experience snoring, frequent pauses in breathing, restless sleep, excessive daytime sleepiness, trouble concentrating, and even behavioral issues such as daytime hyperactivity, trouble focusing, or bed wetting. A sleep study is sometimes needed to diagnose the condition accurately.
What are the treatments for pediatric sleep apnea?
Treatment depends on the cause of sleep apnea. If enlarged tonsils or adenoids are blocking the airway, an ENT doctor may recommend surgery. Other options include a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine, a mouthguard to improve jaw position, weight loss for children with obesity, and adjusting sleeping habits. Sometimes, medicine can help with nasal congestion or inflammation.
Learn more about sleep apnea treatment at ARC.
What are the risk factors of untreated sleep apnea?
If left untreated, pediatric sleep apnea can lead to poor school performance, growth delays, heart problems, and worsening neurological issues. Early diagnosis and treatment can help children breathe better, sleep soundly, and live healthier lives.
Learn more about obstructive sleep apnea in children.
"Recognizing the signs of pediatric sleep apnea early can be key to improving a child's sleep and overall health," says Dr. Meigs. "With the right treatment, children can breathe easier, sleep better, and thrive."
About ARC ENT Pediatric Care
At ARC, our ENT doctors and advanced practice clinicians (APCs) offer a wide range of pediatric ENT services specifically geared toward children. Conditions treated include sleep apnea, ear infections, sinus problems, snoring, head and neck tumors, hearing loss, speech delay, and voice disorders. Visit our ARC ENT Pediatric Care page to learn more.
Make an appointment today
Dr. Meigs is accepting new patients of all ages. To make an appointment, call ARC Far West Medical Tower at 512-346-8888.