Thinking your child may have obstructive sleep apnea because they often feel tired the next day after being in bed all night? If your child still feels tired in the morning, then it means they are not getting the sleep they need to feel good and be ready for the day. Your job as a parent is to find out why your child is tired all the time. If you suspect that your child may have this sleeping disorder, then finding out more about this sleeping disorder is necessary, as there are solutions available.
Obstructive sleep apnea in children is also caused by a blockage in their upper airway, just like adults. This blockage consists of their tonsils and/or extra tissue in the back of the throat that literally blocks their airway, making it so they cannot breathe for short periods of time. This blockage occurs as the muscles begin to relax a little too much, so breathing becomes difficult.
Common signs that show up when children may have this sleeping disorder includes feeling tired the next day, snoring, restless sleeping and bedwetting.
Common risk factors for children developing sleep apnea include having a family history, being overweight, having a large neck or large tongue and being diagnosed with medical conditions like cerebral palsy.
According to SleepApnea.org, surgical removal of the adenoids and tonsils is the most common treatment for pediatric OSA. By removing the tonsils in the back of the throat, there is no longer any extra tissue there to block the airway when they are sleeping. Another treatment option includes using a CPAP machine, also known as a continuous positive airway pressuretherapy machine. This is worn when sleeping, with a goal of reducing and even eliminating any sleep apnea events during the night. Oral appliances are also a potential treatment option for children who are diagnosed with this sleeping disorder, as well as making lifestyle changes, e.g., losing weight, eating better, exercising, etc.
We welcome any questions you have about obstructive sleep apnea in children. The more you know, the better you can deal with this serious sleeping disorder. In order for you to know for sure whether your child has obstructed sleep apnea, you will need to make an appointment with a medical professional. A sleep study test may be recommended, which requires your child to spend the night in a medical setting so their sleeping habits can be closely monitored.
Call (972) 996-3191 today to reach Stone Canyon Dental.
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