What is Pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

Pediatric obstructive sleep apnea is a medical condition that affects children. It is a sleep-related disorder in which the child’s breathing is blocked while sleeping. It is different from adult obstructive sleep, which is primarily caused by obesity. Pediatric obstructive sleep apnea is usually caused by overgrown tonsils and/or adenoids.

Symptoms of Pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea

There are certain signs that children exhibit if they are suffering from this sleeping disorder. They may have behavioral issues and experience trouble learning. They will have trouble paying attention in school and as a result, perform poorly on an academic level. While sleeping, the child may snort, snore, cough, and breath heavily through the mouth. All these symptoms cause restless sleep and may be caused by enlarged tonsils or adenoids. It is important to note that babies and very young children with obstructive sleep apnea may not exhibit obvious signs such as snoring and pauses in breathing – they may just have restless and disturbed sleep.

Diagnosis Options For Pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea

If the child is having behavioral issues and constantly wakes up feeling exhausted, seeing a pediatrician is recommended. The pediatrician can determine if the child has obstructive sleep apnea by performing special tests while the child is sleeping.

Types Of Pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea Treatments

There are different ways to treat pediatric obstructive sleep apnea. One way to treat this type of sleep disorder is to take precautions to avoid contact with any allergens that may be contributing to the child’s condition. Another method to treating pediatric obstructive sleep apnea is the implementation of special oral appliances to reposition the child’s tongue and jaw; this clears the airway and can help the child to sleep better. Positive airway pressure therapy is another effective sleep apnea treatment. A small device consisting of a tube attached to a mask works to send air back into the child’s throat and allow for an open airway.

Get In Touch with Us for More Information

To learn how your child can get a better night’s sleep, feel free to reach out and make an appointment with Ashburn Children’s Dentistry! At our convenient location in Ashburn, VA, our caring and knowledgeable professionals will be happy to answer any question you may have and help your child sleep better in the night. Contact us today to set up your consultation – we look forward to speaking with you!