Sleep apnea is a common problem in children.  It is estimated to affect about  2% of children including many who go undiagnosed. It is a serious disorder in which breathing is interrupted repeatedly during sleep. If not treated , it can lead to a variety of problems including heart, behavioral, growth and learning problems.

What are the symptoms of sleep apnea ?

Symptoms of this disorder include :

• frequent snoring
• breathing problems during the night
• sleepiness during the day
• difficulty paying attention
• behavioral problems

Let your pediatrician know if you notice any of these symptoms. He may recommend an overnight sleep study known as polysomnogram. These are conducted in hospitals and major health centers. During the study, the medical staff will watch your child sleep. Several sensors will be attached to your child to monitor breathing, oxygenation and brain waves ((electroencephalogram; EEG).

The results of the study will show if your child suffers from sleep apnea or not. Others specialist may help your pediatrician make the diagnosis. These include :

• pediatric pulmonologists
• otolaryngologists
• neurologists
• pediatricians with specialty training in sleep disorders

How is sleep apnea treated ?

Most children with sleep apnea have larger tonsils and adenoids. The most common treatment for sleep apnea is to remove the  tonsils and adenoid. This surgery known as tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy, is very effective in treating sleep apnea.

Another effective treatment is nasal continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). This requires the child to wear a mask while she sleeps. The mask delivers steady air pressure through the child’s nose which allows her  to breathe comfortably . This is usually used for children who do not  improve after a tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy or who are not candidates for a tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy.

Children who are born with conditions such as Down syndrome, cerebral palsy or craniofacial abnormalities are at higher risk for sleep apnea. These children may need additional treatment. Overweight children are more likely to have sleep apnea. The condition will get better when they lose weight but may need to use a CPAP until the weight is lost.

NOTE

A good sleep is important for good health. Talk to your pediatrician if your child show signs of sleep apnea.