Can Children Suffer from Sleep Apnea?
Children who suffer from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) experience pauses in their breathing while they sleep. Sleep apnea affects children in two ways: obstructive and central (central apnea).
An obstruction in the nose or back of the throat is to blame for obstructive sleep apnea. Central apnea, on the other hand, happens when the brain’s component that controls breathing malfunctions. The regular impulses to breathe aren’t sent to the respiratory muscles while using this device.
The frequency of snoring varies with sleep apnea kinds. Central apnea may cause snoring, although obstructive sleep apnea is more likely to cause snoring. Because snoring is linked to airway blockage, this is the reason why.
Sleep apnea symptoms in children:-
Other than snoring changes, the symptoms of obstructive and central apnea may be identical. Children with sleep apnea often experience the following symptoms:
- Snoring at an alarmingly high volume
- Stopping breathing during sleep due to sleep
- Other sleep-related issues include choking or coughing
Although sleep apnea is mostly a nighttime problem, its symptoms may be seen throughout the day as well. Daytime symptoms might include weariness, trouble falling asleep, and difficulties waking up in the morning if your kid has a disturbed night’s sleep as a result of this disease.
Even in infants and early toddlers, people with central apnea may not snore. Troubled or interrupted sleep may be the sole symptom of snoring in this age range.
Without treatment, your child’s quality of life will be negatively affected by sleep apnea. They may have a hard time staying focused in school. If this problem continues into adulthood, it may increase the risk of stroke or heart disease.
Conclusion:-
A sleep apnea diagnosis should be made if you see any of these symptoms in your kid. For that, you can get in touch with Dr. Seemab Shaikh in Pune.