Can Children Have Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is one of the most common sleep disorders. In most cases, it impacts adults. However, it can impact children in some cases. This serious sleep disorder should be addressed immediately. At Distinctive Dental Solutions, we can help. Reach out to us today to learn more about sleep apnea in children and treatment options available.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that causes the sufferer to stop breathing repeatedly throughout the night. Sleep apnea can have a multitude of negative health impacts, including that impaired sleep, memory problems, mood disturbances, trouble concentrating, and even more severe consequences, such as heart failure. While sleep apnea is no doubt a concerning condition that should be taken seriously, the good news is that sleep apnea is completely treatable.
Sleep Apnea in Children
While much more common in adults, sleep apnea in children is possible. When impacting children, obstructive sleep apnea most commonly affects children ages two through six, although children of any age could be diagnosed with this sleep disorder. Those children who are more at risk of developing obstructive sleep apnea include children who are overweight, have enlarged tonsils, have a small jaw, or have facial weakness or Down syndrome.
Treatments for Sleep Apnea in Children
Fortunately, there are treatment options available for children with obstructive sleep apnea. These treatment options include:
- Removal of tonsils if tonsils are obstructing the airway
- Other types of surgery for children with craniofacial abnormalities
- Weight loss for child obesity
- Use of a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) device or another oral device
It’s important to have your child seen by a doctor or/and sleep specialists who can correctly diagnose the sleep apnea and provide an overview of the most appropriate treatment options. If sleep apnea in children is not corrected, it can lead to behavioral issues, poor growth, high blood pressure, and other heart problems.
Work with a Sleep Apnea Specialists
At Distinctive Dental Solutions, we recognize how important it is that your child receives proper care for sleep apnea. We can work with your child’s doctor to design and fit an oral device that keeps the airway open to treat sleep apnea. Please reach out to us directly to schedule your appointment or learn more.
