Does it sometimes seem like your child is not well-rested, or is easily agitated all the time? That could be an indication that they have a sleeping disorder.
We think of adults as being the ones who have snoring problems and sleep apnea, but children can have them, too. When a child has sleep apnea, their breathing is partially or completely blocked repeatedly during sleep.
While adults usually manifest sleeping disorders by having daytime sleepiness, these disorders tend to appear in children as behavioral problems.
When sleep apnea is left untreated, your child may develop behavioral issues – so early diagnosis and treatment are critical in the interest of your child’s growth and development. Let’s talk about some of the common symptoms of sleep apnea in children, and where you can go in Georgetown, Texas, for outstanding sleep treatment for your child.
Nighttime Symptoms of Pediatric Sleep Apnea
Snoring
Persistent snoring is usually a warning sign for parents. Children aren’t likely to snore unless they have upper-respiratory infections, like the common cold, that could clog their nasal cavity; but if the child is snoring even while healthy, it may be sleep apnea.
Breathing Through the Mouth
We typically breathe through our noses. However, when there is an obstruction in the nose, we breathe through our mouth. However, if this goes on for a long time, this symptom can further develop into sleep apnea.
Excessive relaxation of the mouth and throat muscles can lead to sleep apnea. Mouth breathing could also lead to several problems in children, including dry mouth and infections.
Wetting the Bed
Children occasionally wetting their bed at night is generally normal. However, you should be concerned if this occurs twice or more a week when your child is beyond five years old. Sleep apnea may cause imbalances in the brain that may induce bedwetting.
Excessive Daytime Napping
It is normal for your child to grow out of taking naps as they get older. However, if you notice that your growing child still requires daytime naps and looks exhausted, it may be a sign of sleep apnea. School-age children don’t usually need naps unless they are sleep-deprived.
Sleep Terrors
Sleep terrors are a form of sleep disruption. These are often triggered by underlying conditions that interfere with sleep, and among these conditions is sleep apnea.
Daytime Symptoms of Sleep Apnea in Kids
Poor School Performance
Insufficient sleep can adversely affect your child’s attentiveness and focus, especially at school. They may also lack the motivation to participate and perform well, which can lead to poor academic performance.
Growth Issues
When sleep apnea in a child is left untreated by a physician, it can lead to:
- Cognitive delays
- Growth delays
- Heart problems
- Insufficient weight gain
Sleep Apnea Treatment for Children in Georgetown, TX
Here at Georgetown ENT, we have a team of board-certified physicians who are committed to providing your family with the best healthcare. We will ensure that you and your child have a comfortable visit and that we get to the bottom of your sleeping issues.
Call us today at (512) 869-0604 or fill out our Request an Appointment form now. We look forward to helping you resolve your child’s sleeping troubles!
