Sleep apnea is a condition that’s much more complicated than most people understand. Most people think of it as being primarily associated with snoring or assume that it really only affects older men. While each of these things can be true, there are exceptions to these rules that are important to keep in mind.
For example, parents often notice that their children have trouble sleeping, are chronically tired in the morning, and exhibit many other symptoms associated with sleep apnea. This may lead them to wonder whether they could be dealing with this problem, despite its reputation for afflicting much older people. If you’re in that situation, here’s what you should know about sleep apnea in children.
Can Children Have Sleep Apnea?
It is true that sleep apnea is most common in older people, especially in older men. However, it is absolutely possible for people who are considerably younger to have the condition. While not necessarily common, pediatric sleep apnea does exist and is worth being vigilant for.
What are the Signs of Pediatric Sleep Apnea?
One of the difficulties in noticing sleep apnea in children is that the condition can present itself differently in them than in adults. While snoring can potentially be a factor in younger people with this condition, there are a few other signs that you ought to watch out for if you want to catch sleep apnea in children:
- Snorting, coughing, or choking during sleep.
- Mouth breathing while asleep.
- Nighttime sweating.
- Bed-wetting during the night.
- Sleep terrors.
- Restless sleep.
During the day, you might also find that your child is noticeably tired, affecting their mood or their ability to handle everyday tasks.
What To Do If You Think Your Child has Sleep Apnea
If you notice that your child has symptoms associated with this condition, it may be a good idea to have them screened for sleep apnea. You can bring them to a sleep dentist or a sleep doctor, ideally one that is comfortable seeing patients of all ages. There, they’ll be able to talk to you and your child about what your options are for dealing with the condition.
About Our Practice
There’s arguably nothing more important than breathing properly, which is why at Healthy Sleep we’re proud to have the expertise and dedication that it takes to help our patients do that. No matter your age or the complexity of your issue, we have a team of incredible experts who will be able to help you breathe easy, sleep better, and live your life to the fullest.
If you have any questions about sleep apnea in children, we can be reached at our website or by phone at (918) 300-4325.