Are you wondering if your child’s sleep struggles are more than just occasional restlessness? Here are the signs of sleep apnea you should know about.
Sleep is the foundation of a child’s growth, development and overall wellbeing. Yet, for some kids and teens, quality sleep is disrupted by a condition that often flies under the radar – sleep apnea. Sleep apnea isn’t just about snoring – it can have a ripple effect on kids’ health, mood and even their grades at school. While it’s more commonly associated with adults, little ones can also experience this issue, and recognising the signs early is the key to ensuring they get the rest they need.
What is sleep apnea?
Most of us have woken up once or twice to the sound of snorts, rasps or snores from our little one’s bedroom. While occasional snoring is quite normal, excessive snoring can be a sign of a deeper sleep issue in kids – and the common culprit is sleep apnea.
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts throughout the night. These pauses, called apneas, can last for seconds or even longer, disrupting the natural flow of sleep.
In children, the most common form is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), where the airway becomes partially or fully blocked. This blockage can happen due to enlarged tonsils or adenoids, a narrow jaw, small chin, other structural differences that may lead to a restricted airway, or even obesity. Unlike adults, who often experience daytime drowsiness as a hallmark symptom, kids and teens may exhibit more subtle or unexpected signs.
Subtle signs
Sleep apnea in children doesn’t always look the way you’d expect. While snoring is a classic symptom, it’s not the only red flag. In fact, some of the indicators might surprise you.
Snoring
If your child snores loudly most nights, especially if it’s uneven or interrupted by gasps, it’s worth paying attention. Occasional snoring, such as during a cold, is normal, but ongoing snoring isn’t.
Pauses in breathing
If you notice your child stopping and starting their breathing during sleep, it’s a clear sign something may be wrong.
Restlessness
Kids with sleep apnea often toss and turn, waking up in unusual positions. They might also sweat excessively during sleep.
Mouth breathing
If your child is waking up with a dry mouth or regularly breathing through their mouth during the night, this could indicate an obstructed airway.
Mood swings
Poor sleep can leave kids feeling cranky or overly emotional. If your usually cheerful child is suddenly having frequent meltdowns, it could be tied to restless nights.
Difficulty concentrating
Sleep apnea can mimic symptoms of ADHD, such as trouble focusing, hyperactivity or forgetfulness. Teachers might notice your child is struggling to pay attention in class, or you may see your little one having trouble with longer tasks, such as reading.
Headaches and bedwetting
Frequent morning headaches can sometimes be a result of oxygen deprivation during sleep. In some cases, older children with sleep apnea may also experience bedwetting, even if they’ve outgrown it.
Action steps
If you’ve noticed any of these symptoms, the first thing you should do is start tracking what’s happening. Write down your observations – how often does your son or daughter snore? Do they pause their breathing or do they wake up feeling unrefreshed? Sharing this information with your doctor will give them a clearer picture from the get-go.
Your child may be referred to an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist or your doctor might recommend a sleep study. This is often done at a clinic or hospital, where your child’s breathing, heart rate and oxygen levels are monitored overnight to assess if sleep apnea is the cause of their sleep disturbance.
At-home support
While you wait for professional advice or treatment, here are some steps you can take to improve your child’s sleep environment and habits:
- Consistent bedtime
- Elevate their head
- Encourage healthy habits
- Address allergies
- Limit screens
These are simple at-home actions you can take that will ease some of the factors that make sleep more difficult for little ones already struggling with sleep apnea. A regular bedtime and less screen time will help regulate your child’s circadian rhythm, allowing them to fall asleep more easily, while addressing allergies and keeping their head elevated will support their airway staying open as they sleep. Lastly, good healthful habits will slowly tackle any weight issues that may be contributing to their sleep apnea.
Treatment
The good news is that sleep apnea in children is treatable. Depending on the cause, options might include surgery to remove enlarged tonsils or adenoids, which can often resolve the issue completely. For kids whose issues are milder, a half year period of ‘watchful waiting’ is sometimes recommended, where a variety of lifestyle changes are advised to tackle any underlying factors that can be solved without surgical intervention. Another treatment path taken is called continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). This is a machine that helps keep children’s airways open during the night. It involves wearing a soft mask over their nose or mouth, connected by a tube to a box which delivers air concentrated at a higher flow rate. CPAP is an appealing option to many concerned parents as it negates the need for medication or surgery.
Sleep apnea in kids and teens is more common than many people realise, but it doesn’t have to go unnoticed. By recognising the signs and seeking help early, you can ensure your child gets the restful, restorative sleep they need to thrive.
If your child’s sleep patterns or behaviour have you concerned, trust your instincts. A simple conversation with your medical provider could be the first step towards better nights and brighter days – for both of you.
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