Child Sleep Apnea-Part 1

Written by Fred McConnell

Sleep apnea is no respecter of persons. In other words, anyone of any age can suffer from the sleeping disorder. When the problem affects an adult, he/she generally rouses enough to continue breathing and then go back to sleep. In most cases, the episodes happen without the sleeper realizing there is a problem. Unfortunately, the same can be said for children; but, an infant or small child is less likely to be awakened quickly.

Thus, the potential for death is greater than in adult sleep apnea. So, it is important to recognize the symptoms and know what to do, if child sleep apnea is a concern.

Babies

The scariest cases

of sleep apnea are probably when it occurs in infants. Babies already have to breathe faster than adults, in order to get enough oxygen to thrive. So, a few seconds of cessation is a big deal. In some case, the child may not rouse enough to start breathing again on his/her own.

If you baby has sleep apnea, you may notice that he/she has a bluish tint around the mouth and fingernail. In addition, the skin will feel cold and clammy. You might even find your baby to be limp and unresponsive.

It is imperative that you seek medical help for your baby right away. In some children, the tonsils and adenoids are removed and this solves the problem. For babies, you may have to attach them to some sort of monitor at night, in order to let you know when your child’s breathing has stopped for too long. In addition, you will need to learn infant and child CPR, so that you can have the best chance of reviving your child, until medical personnel can get to your house.

Symptoms of Child Sleep Apnea

In older children, you may notice some symptoms of sleep apnea. Some are quite common; others are not. Some are basically the same as the adult counterparts. Some signs of sleep apnea may actually seem like behavioral issues. So, before you go assume your child is simply being naughty, you might want to check out the following list and get your son/daughter checked by a physician.

Tired all the Time

Of course, children need more sleep than most adults. Naptime is great for them, and the parent who could use a little rest. But, it is not natural to be tired all of the time. If your child is sleepy a lot and does not have the energy to play like the other children, it may be an indication of a sleeping disorder.

Interrupted Breathing

Like adults, children with sleep apnea stop breathing for 6-8 seconds, wake slightly, and resume breathing and sleeping. The pattern may happen dozens of times each night. So, if you notice that the regular rhythm of sleep is being interrupted a lot, it is time to call the doctor.

Snoring and Sweating

Sleep apnea in kids also manifests itself with the typical snoring and night sweats. If you hear your child snoring, then it gets quiet and the snoring starts again, it could mean a sleep disorder is the cause. Of course, the work to keep breathing in the night can also cause night sweats, just like it does in adults. But, because children do not necessarily pay attention, it will be incumbent upon you to see the signs of sleep apnea and get the necessary help, if needed.

Bad Dreams

If your child frequently has nightmares, it may be a symptom of sleep apnea. Generally, when people reach that deep level of sleep, they will not remember dreams, good or bad. However, dreaming is remembered when one does not sleep deeply, and bad dreams can jolt a person awake. So, unless he/she has recently been through some traumatic event, bad dreams can be one of the clues that your child has a sleep disorder.

Dry Mouth

Does your child often sleep with his/her mouth open? It may be because of obstructive sleep apnea. It might be impossible to get enough air, when breathing through the nose. A sleeping disorder can also be a symptom of some other health issues. If your child does not breathe through their nose, it might be time to make an appointment with an ear, nose, and throat specialist.

In short, sleep apnea is a disorder that can adversely affect any person at any age. However, it can be especially dangerous for children, because they might not awaken to breath as fast as their adult counterparts. As a parent or guardian, it will be up to you to recognize the signs and have your child tested for this sleep disorder. Oftentimes, it is a matter of removing the tonsils and adenoids to relieve the obstructed airway. If not, monitors can be used to let you know if the child is in distress. In part 2, you will discover more signs and symptoms of this common sleep problem.