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Pediatric Sleep Apnea

Welcome to our patient information page on Pediatric Sleep Apnea. Here, you can learn more about childhood sleep apnea and the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment options that are available.

Have a question about getting a referral to Dr. Karamy for your child's sleep apnea?

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Pediatric Sleep Apnea: A Guide to Understanding Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

What is Pediatric Sleep Apnea?

Pediatric sleep apnea is a condition where a child's breathing is partially or completely blocked during sleep, causing brief interruptions in their breathing. This disorder can lead to disrupted sleep patterns and, if left untreated, can impact a child's overall health.

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See adult sleep apnea.

Symptoms of Pediatric Sleep Apnea

Recognizing the signs of sleep apnea in your child's behaviour is crucial for early intervention.

 

Common symptoms include:

  • Loud Snoring: Frequent and loud snoring, often accompanied by pauses in breathing.

  • Chronic Fatigue: Children with sleep apnea may be excessively tired during the day.

  • Restless Sleep: Frequent tossing and turning during sleep.

  • Mouth Breathing: Breathing through the mouth instead of the nose.

  • Attention Problems: Difficulty focusing at school and behavioral issues.

  • Morning Headaches: Frequent headaches upon waking.

  • Bedwetting: Sleep apnea can contribute to bedwetting in some cases.

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Causes of Pediatric Sleep Apnea

Several factors can contribute to pediatric sleep apnea:

  • Enlarged Tonsils and Adenoids: These structures can obstruct the airway during sleep.

  • Family History: A family history of sleep apnea can increase a child's risk.

  • Obesity: Excess weight can put pressure on the airway.

  • Narrowed Airway: Some children may have naturally narrow airways.

  • Neuromuscular Disorders: Certain neurological conditions can affect muscle control, including those involved in breathing.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Pediatric Sleep Apnea

If you recognize your child's symptoms of sleep apnea, it's important to make an appointment with their pediatrician who can refer them to an ENT.  

 

Diagnosis often involves a combination of:

  1. Physical Examination: An examination by an ENT specialist may reveal physical signs of obstruction.

  2. Sleep Study (Polysomnogram): A sleep study is essential to diagnose the severity of sleep apnea.

 

Treatment options include:

  • Tonsillectomy and Adenoidectomy: Removal of enlarged tonsils and adenoids to open the airway.

  • CPAP Therapy: A Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine may be used during sleep.

  • Weight Management: Encouraging healthy weight in cases where obesity is a contributing factor.

  • Orthodontic Interventions: In certain cases, orthodontic treatments can help.

Managing Your Child's Sleep Apnea

Children need good quality sleep as they grow and develop. If you have a child who has been diagnosed with sleep apnea, there are lifestyle adjustments that you can make to help manage their condition.

 

Here are some ways you can manage your child's sleep apnea:

  • Regular Follow-Ups: Schedule follow-up visits with their pediatrician and ENT specialist to monitor progress.

  • Healthy Lifestyle: Encourage a balanced diet and regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight.

  • Consistent Sleep Schedule: Ensure your child gets enough quality sleep by establishing a consistent bedtime routine.

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When to Seek Medical Attention

While pediatric sleep apnea can often be managed with the right interventions, certain situations require immediate medical attention.

 

Seek urgent medical care if your child experiences:

  • Cessation of Breathing: If your child stops breathing during sleep, or you notice long pauses between breaths, seek medical help immediately.

  • Severe Struggling: If your child appears to be in distress, gasping for air, or experiencing significant choking or coughing during sleep, it's essential to seek care.

  • Extreme Fatigue: If your child is extremely fatigued during the day, to the point of excessive sleepiness that affects their daily activities or school performance, consult a healthcare professional.

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Pediatric sleep apnea can be well-managed with collaboration between healthcare providers and parents. It is important to make an appointment with your pediatrician as soon as you can if you suspect that your child may have sleep apnea.

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At Niagara ENT, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive care for pediatric sleep apnea. Our team will work closely with you to develop a personalized treatment plan to improve your child's sleep apnea.

 

If you feel you have an issue with this consider a referral to Dr. Karamy.

Disclaimer

The information provided on this webpage is for educational purposes only and should not replace medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and individualized treatment recommendations.

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