Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder among the adult population. It occurs when breathing is briefly interrupted when someone is asleep. Believe it or not, sleep apnea may also arise in children. If your child snores, frequently tosses and turns in bed, has night sweats, or shows long pauses in breathing, they may have sleep apnea.
It is estimated that 1 to 4 percent of children between the ages of 2 and 8 years old suffer from sleep apnea. Although it is possible for children with sleep apnea to grow out of this condition, they should still seek treatment for it.
Failing to treat childhood sleep apnea can lead to daytime fatigue and behavioral problems at school. If you believe your child is showing signs of sleep apnea, take them to a doctor right away.
Since most children with sleep apnea have larger tonsils and adenoids, a surgical procedure may be performed to remove your child’s tonsils and adenoid. If surgery is not an option, a continuous positive airway pressure or CPAP, which requires your child to wear a mask while they sleep may be recommended. The mask will deliver air pressure through their nose and allow them to breathe comfortably.
If your child is overweight, eating a healthier diet and exercising may be suggested as weight loss often improves sleep apnea.
Contact Costa Family & Cosmetic Dentistry
If your believe your child is showing signs of sleep apnea, it is in your best interest to schedule an appointment today. Call our Great Falls office at 703-439-1214 or Ashburn office at 703-348-2818.