Kids need sleep (and lots of it), but sometimes they just can’t get it no matter how early they go to bed. One reason for this is pediatric obstructive sleep apnea. This form keeps kids from maintaining a deep, restful sleep because they continually wake up throughout the night due to blocked or partially blocked breathing while sleeping.
You may have heard about sleep apnea in adults. However, pediatric obstructive sleep apnea is a different form of the condition, the main one being symptoms.
Causes and Symptoms of Pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea
First off, the cause of the condition in children versus adults is generally different. While it is caused by obesity for many adults, enlarged or swollen adenoids and tonsils are the main cause in children. When children don’t get the restful sleep they need, they react differently than adults. The following symptoms are reported by Mayo Clinic and are separated from daytime and nighttime.
Daytime Symptoms
- Learning problems
- Difficulty paying attention
- Hyperactivity
- Difficulty gaining weight
Nighttime Symptoms
- Bedwetting
- Night terrors
- Snoring
- Restless sleep
If not treated, pediatric obstructive sleep apnea can cause heart problems, hinder the growth of the child, or even lead to death (as an extreme case).
If your child is constantly tired after what should be a full night’s rest, or if they have behavioral problems throughout the day, this condition could be to blame. If you notice these symptoms in your child, come see us at VitalCare Family Practice to get the problem sorted before it becomes a bigger issue.
