Snoring and Children
It is estimated that somewhere between 3% and 12% of
children of a preschool age snore even though the majority of these
children are probably without any other symptoms and otherwise
appear quite fit and healthy. This type of snoring experienced by
children is called primary snoring.
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However, it is estimated that approximately 2% of preschool age
children have obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS), which is a
condition that is being recognized more and more as quite a serious
problem. In fact OSAS has been found to be a contributing factor to
behavioral problems experienced by children, especially those found
at school.
So how do you know if your child is a normal
or primary snorer or is suffering from obstructive sleep
apnea?
Those children who snore but are otherwise well and do not
exhibit daytime sleepiness with normal sleep patterns will
be primary snorers. Those children with OSAS will have a
disrupted sleep pattern along with short pauses, snorts and
gasps during the night. |
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These children are also often found to have
behavioral problems with a poor and short attention
span associated with other problems at school.
Other symptoms may also be present such as:
High blood pressure
Poor weight gain
Overweight
Large adenoids and/or tonsils with frequent mouth
breathing accompanied by a hyponasal speech
If you suspect your child has OSAS, tests can be
performed on them which include an overnight sleep study (known
as a nocturnal polysomnography) at a hospital. However you may
unfortunately experience difficulties finding a hospital that
performs these sleep studies as they tend to be carried out in
hospitals in the larger cities.
Other tests may be performed such as video and audio recordings
which will require an interpretation by a sleep specialist.
Overnight pulse and oximetry (measurement of oxygen) will also
be required whilst the child is asleep. These can also be
performed during a child’s daytime nap. Although these tests can
assist if a child has OSAS, they can still present normal even
if the child has OSAS.
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If it is determined a child has obstructive
sleep apnea, treatment options can include the removal of
enlarged adenoids and tonsils. A child may have their
allergies treated or help can be given to them lose weight
if required. Those children who are unable to have surgery
may benefit CPAP therapy via a nasal mask.
If your child is diagnosed with obstructive
sleep apnea, they are likely to be treated by an ENT
specialist, a Pulmonologist or a neurologist. It is
important to make enquires about their experience with
dealing with these types of problems as they may not give
them the importance they require.
Ensure you have your child seen by this type
of specialist if your child has tested negative but you
still suspect that they have OSAS. Sometimes tests etc can
have inconclusive results. |
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Remember be suspicious about the possibility of
OSAS if your child regularly snores and has apnea, sleepiness
in the daytime along with the possibility of behavioral
problems.
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