Sleep apnea also affects children. Some symptoms must be taken seriously in order to make a diagnosis and put in place an appropriate treatment.
Did you know that sleep apnea can also affect younger people? 2-4% of children suffer from sleep apnea. We take stock of thehe causes, warning signs and consequences on the health of the little ones. How to recognize and treat sleep apnea in children so that he can enjoy a restful sleep?
Definition: what is sleep apnea?
Children can also suffer from sleep apnea. From childhood, some have partial or total airway obstruction (the nose and throat) which occurs during sleep. “Often diagnosed late, this syndrome affects 2 to 4% of children,” explains Dr. Sylvie Royant-Parola, psychiatrist. Be careful though, snoring is not 100% synonymous with sleep apnea..
What causes sleep apnea in children?
In the youngest, sleep apnea can be linked to a increased volume of adenoids and tonsils. Children suffering from a significant gastroesophageal reflux, asthma or born prematurely are more at risk. “Enlarged tonsils and adenoids, heredity and a morphology with narrow jaws are also possible factors“, specifies the specialist.
What are the symptoms of sleep apnea in children?
As in an adult with sleep apnea:
- the child stops breathing for a few seconds
- snore audibly
- breathe with your mouth open at night
- excessive sweating with wet pajamas and pillow in the morning upon waking
- abnormal sleeping position with the head hyperextended and remaining in a sitting position
- restless sleep or many nocturnal awakenings
- during the day, he usually breathes through his mouth, may suffer from headaches or have mood swings
“Headaches on waking, signs of hyperactivity, psychomotor agitation, impaired growth or a drop in school results are also warning signs.“, specifies the specialist. In view of the medical and educational consequences, it is important not to miss the diagnosis and to take these signs seriously.
When and who to consult in case of sleep apnea in children?
When parents notice the signs mentioned above, they should consult a doctor. “They can then turn to a pediatrician, an ENT, an orthodontist, a physiotherapistetc… for multidisciplinary care“, recommends Dr. Royant-Parola. In order to confirm the diagnosis, the doctor will carry out several examinations:
- maxillofacial morphological examination,
- ENT examination,
- evaluation of the staturo-ponderal curve.
What treatments for sleep apnea in children?
In the youngest, sleep apnea can be linked to a increase in the volume of vegetation. “Before the age of 6, the removal of the tonsils and adenoids is proposed as first-line treatment“, reports the specialist.
In some children, orthodontic treatment can also be offered. Allergic rhinitis can also be treated as well as obesity. Rehabilitation of the tongue muscles can also be implemented.
What are the risks of sleep apnea in children?
Children with sleep apnea may experience impaired overall development. They can suffer fromhyperactivity, attention difficulties or mood swings.
Thanks to Dr Sylvie Royant-Parola, psychiatrist and sleep specialist.