The importance of diagnosis for sleep apnea in children
Despite being a more common problem among adults, Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) can also affect children and adolescents. Characterized by obstruction of breathing while the person sleeps, the diagnosis is often not made during childhood. Therefore, it is essential that parents seek to know the signs and symptoms to identify as soon as possible.
Sleep plays an essential role in the psychic, emotional and metabolic balance of the body, therefore, when not performed in a healthy way, it can affect the normal development of the child and have serious repercussions in their adult life. If there is any suspicion, it is important to seek help. Treating the disease causes the individual to obtain significant improvements in their quality of life.
Risk Factors for OSA in Children
- Tonsil and Adenoid Hypertrophy;
- Childhood Obesity
- Craniofacial Malformations
- Neuromuscular Diseases
- Hereditary factors.
Be aware of signs and symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnea in children in addition to snoring, such as difficulties breathing through the nose, bed wetting, movement during the night, night sweats and micro awakenings.
Know some possible repercussions on Child Development
- attention deficits
- Drop in school performance
- Hyperactivity and other behavior problems
- Irritability
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- unusual tiredness
- morning headache
- nasal voice
- Predisposition to cardiovascular diseases such as high blood pressure
Treatment for Sleep Apnea varies greatly depending on each case: it can be based on medication, such as nasal corticosteroids, orthodontics, weight loss, positional or surgical therapy. In the case of tonsil and adenoid surgery, symptoms tend to improve.
In addition to these possible interventions, Cpap may also be indicated, which consists of providing continuous pressure in the airways through nasal or facial interfaces, for the effective treatment of OSA.
At VitalAire, you will find solutions for treating OSA.