What is Pediatric Sleep Apnea?

Pediatric sleep apnea is a condition where a child's breathing is interrupted during sleep. This interruption occurs when the upper airway becomes partially or completely blocked, causing the child to stop breathing momentarily. These pauses in breathing can happen multiple times throughout the night, disrupting the child’s sleep and preventing them from getting the deep, restorative rest they need.

Signs and Symptoms of Pediatric Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea in children often goes undiagnosed because some parents might attribute the symptoms to other causes. It’s important to be aware of the potential signs, which include:

• Loud snoring: One of the most common symptoms, especially when snoring is accompanied by pauses in breathing or gasping for air.
• Restless sleep: Children with sleep apnea often toss and turn during the night and may wake up frequently.
• Daytime sleepiness: Despite getting what seems like enough sleep, a child with sleep apnea may feel excessively tired during the day.
• Behavioral issues: Sleep deprivation can lead to irritability, difficulty focusing, and hyperactive behavior, sometimes misdiagnosed as ADHD.
• Mouth breathing: Persistent mouth breathing, especially during sleep, can indicate airway obstruction.
• Bedwetting: Older children with sleep apnea may experience bedwetting as a result of disrupted sleep.

Causes of Pediatric Sleep Apnea

The most common cause of pediatric sleep apnea is enlarged tonsils or adenoids, which can obstruct the airway. Other contributing factors may include:

• Obesity: Excess weight can lead to narrowing of the airway, increasing the risk of sleep apnea.
• Facial structure: Certain anatomical differences, such as a small jaw or high-arched palate, can make a child more prone to airway blockages.
• Neurological conditions: In rare cases, sleep apnea may result from neurological conditions that affect the muscles responsible for keeping the airway open.

Why Early Diagnosis is Important

Untreated pediatric sleep apnea can lead to serious long-term health complications. In addition to affecting a child’s mood and behavior, chronic sleep apnea can impact physical health, leading to issues such as poor growth, cardiovascular problems, and metabolic disorders. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent these complications and help your child achieve better sleep and overall health.

When to See an ENT Specialist

If you suspect your child may have sleep apnea, it’s important to consult an ENT specialist for a thorough evaluation. An ENT specialist can perform a sleep study to diagnose the condition and determine the best course of treatment. The sooner sleep apnea is diagnosed, the quicker your child can get relief and improve their sleep quality.

In Conclusion

Pediatric sleep apnea is a serious condition that can have lasting effects on a child’s health and development if left untreated. Recognizing the symptoms and seeking treatment early can lead to better sleep, improved behavior, and overall well-being for your child. If you’re concerned about your child’s sleep or believe they may have sleep apnea, the Los Angeles Center for Ear, Nose, Throat and Allergy is here to help. Contact us to schedule an evaluation and discuss treatment options.