Can Children Have Sleep Apnea? Signs Parents Should Know

Can children have sleep apnea? The simple answer is yes. While we often think of this as an adult issue, it affects a significant number of children, often going unnoticed or mistaken for other behavioral problems. 

Recognizing the signs early can change your child’s health and happiness. Continue reading to learn what to look for and how to help your little one rest easier.

Key Takeaways

• Behavior mimics other issues: Sleep apnea in kids often looks like hyperactivity or trouble focusing rather than just tiredness.

• Physical causes are common: Enlarged tonsils and adenoids are the most frequent reason for obstructive sleep apnea in children.

• Treatment works well: From surgery to therapy, there are effective ways to help your child breathe and sleep better.

Understanding Sleep Apnea in Children

We know how scary it feels to worry about your child's breathing. Sleep apnea is a condition where breathing stops and starts during sleep. In children, this can happen when the upper airway gets blocked or, less commonly, if the brain doesn't send the right signals to breathe.

Before we look at the specific causes, it helps to know which type of apnea usually affects kids.

Types of Pediatric Sleep Apnea

There are two main types of sleep apnea that we see in the medical world.

• Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): This is the most common form where something blocks the airway.

• Central Sleep Apnea: This occurs when the brain fails to signal the muscles to breathe.

• Mixed Sleep Apnea: A combination of both obstructive and central apnea.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Causes and Effects

When a child has this condition, air cannot flow easily into the lungs while they sleep.

Most of the time, this happens because of enlarged tonsils and adenoids. When these tissues at the back of the throat are too big, they block the airway when the throat muscles relax at night. Muscle tone plays a big role here; if the muscles are too relaxed, the airway collapses. In some cases, weight loss may be discussed if weight is a factor, but anatomy is often the main cause.

Common Symptoms of Sleep Apnea in Children

It is not always easy to tell if a child is just a restless sleeper or if they have a medical issue.

We recommend looking out for these specific signs that suggest your child might be struggling to breathe at night.

Common symptoms for pediatric sleep apnea

Loud Snoring

Snoring is a hallmark symptom of OSA. While statistics show that about 10 to 20 percent of all children snore regularly, it is a nearly universal symptom in children who actually have sleep apnea.

While a little snore now and then might be from a cold, loud and regular snoring is different. It often means the airway during sleep is narrowed. If you can hear them through a closed door, it is time to talk to a healthcare provider.

Gasping or Choking During Sleep

This is one of the most alarming signs for any parent to witness.

You might notice that your child briefly stops breathing and then wakes with a snort or gasp. This happens because the body detects a drop in oxygen levels and forces them to wake up to take a breath. It disrupts sleep patterns and prevents deep, restorative rest.

Bedwetting Incidences

If your child was previously dry at night but starts wetting the bed again, pay close attention.

• Hormonal changes: Poor sleep affects the hormone that controls urine production.

• Deep sleep crashes: Kids may be too exhausted to wake up when they need to go.

• Stress on the body: The effort to breathe puts extra stress on their system.

Daytime Behavioral Issues

A tired child does not always act sleepy; often, they act out or become hyperactive.

You might see mood swings, aggression, or trouble paying attention at school. Teachers might report that the child is "zoning out." These are classic signs of daytime sleepiness disguised as bad behavior.

The Impact of Sleep Apnea on Children's Well-being

When a child stops breathing repeatedly, it puts a strain on their developing heart and lungs.

Sleep is when the body releases growth hormones. If sleep apnea in children is left untreated, it can lead to slower growth. Furthermore, the constant drop in oxygen and rise in carbon dioxide can affect brain development. We want to ensure every child gets the oxygen they need to grow strong and smart.

The Link Between Sleep Apnea and ADHD

There is a very strong connection between poor sleep and attention problems.

Shockingly, nearly 25 percent of children diagnosed with ADHD may actually be suffering from untreated sleep apnea.

Because sleep-deprived kids become wiry and impulsive, they are often misdiagnosed. A sleep specialist can determine if the root cause is breathing or a true attention disorder.

Importance of Early Diagnosis

Catching this condition early prevents long-term health issues and helps your child succeed in school and life.

If you suspect something is wrong, trusting your gut is the first step toward a solution.

Consulting a Pediatric Specialist

You should schedule an appointment with your pediatrician or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor.

Be ready to describe the symptoms of sleep apnea you have seen. Doctors will check the nose and mouth for large tonsils and adenoids. They might refer you to a sleep medicine expert who works specifically with pediatric sleep.

Role of Pediatric Sleep Studies

To know for sure, a doctor will likely order a test called a polysomnogram.

• In-lab study: This sleep study is the best way to diagnose kids.

• Monitoring: Technicians watch breathing while sleeping, heart rate, and brain waves.

• Comfort: Pediatric labs are designed to make kids feel safe.

At iSLEEP, we specialize in home testing for adults, but we know that for children, an attended in-lab study is the gold standard to diagnose obstructive sleep apnea.

Treatment Options for Pediatric Sleep Apnea

Once sleep apnea is diagnosed, the treatment plan depends on the cause and severity.

We are happy to report that most treatments are highly effective and can resolve the issue completely.

CPAP Therapy

For some children, keeping the airway open with positive air pressure is the answer.

A Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine uses a mask to deliver gentle air. It helps keep the upper airway from collapsing. While it might seem daunting, there are masks made just for small faces. This is often used if surgery isn't an option or if the sleep apnea treatment needs to start immediately.

Surgical Interventions

Removing the blockage is the most common way to treat obstructive sleep apnea in children.

About 75 percent of pediatric tonsil and adenoid surgery is performed to address sleep issues.

Removing enlarged tonsils and adenoids creates more space in the throat. This simple procedure often cures the condition, allowing the child to breathe freely again.

Lifestyle Changes and Weight Management

Sometimes, carrying extra weight can contribute to breathing pauses during the night.

• Healthy diet: Focus on whole foods to support a healthy weight.

• Active play: Encourage daily movement to improve muscle tone.

• Allergy control: Managing allergies keeps the nose and mouth clear.

Creating Sleep-friendly Habits

Good sleep hygiene helps every child, especially those dealing with sleep disorders.

Establishing a calm routine signals to the brain that it is time to wind down and rest.

Importance of Sleep Routines

Consistency is key when trying to improve sleep patterns for the whole family.

Stick to a regular bedtime and wake-up time. A warm bath or reading a book can help relax the body. This routine can reduce stress and make it easier for the child to fall asleep, even if they use a CPAP machine.

Designing a Sleep-friendly Environment

Where your child sleeps plays a big role in how well they rest.

Keep the room cool, dark, and quiet. Remove screens and electronic devices at least an hour before bed. A good environment helps keep distractions away, allowing for deeper sleep phases.

The Role of Parents in Monitoring Symptoms

You are your child's best advocate and the one who knows them best.

We encourage you to stay observant and track any changes in their sleep or daytime behavior.

Documenting Sleep Patterns

Keep a simple sleep diary for a week or two before visiting the doctor.

• Record times: Note when they go to bed and wake up.

• Note sounds: Write down if you hear loud snoring or gasping.

• Track mood: Note if they are cranky or hyper during the day.

Communicating with Healthcare Providers

Bring your notes and be honest about your concerns during your appointment.

Ask questions like, "Could large tonsils and adenoids be the cause?" or "Do we need a sleep specialist?" Clear communication ensures your child gets the obstructive sleep apnea treatment they need without delay.

Conclusion: Taking Timely Action for Your Child's Health

Recognizing signs of pediatric sleep apnea is the first step toward getting your child back on track. Whether the solution is removing tonsils or adenoids or using therapy, treating this condition can transform your child's behavior, growth, and happiness. If you see signs like stops breathing while sleeping or learning problems, do not wait. Talk to a doctor today. 

At iSLEEP, we care about sleep health for everyone. While we focus on helping adults diagnose and treat their sleep issues from home with home sleep test, we encourage you to seek care for your little ones so the whole family can rest better.

Resources for Parents

Finding the right help can be overwhelming, but many organizations offer great support.

• American Academy of Pediatrics: General health guidelines.

• National Sleep Foundation: Tips on sleep hygiene.

• A.W.A.K.E. Network: Support groups for families with apnea.

FAQ

Will my child outgrow sleep apnea?

Rarely. While some symptoms change, untreated sleep apnea usually persists and can cause health problems later. It is best to treat it early.

Is a home sleep test available for kids?

Generally, no. A sleep study is the best done in a lab for children to ensure accuracy. Home tests like those we offer at iSLEEP are typically designed for adults.

Can allergies cause sleep apnea?

Allergies can worsen it by blocking the nose and mouth, but they are rarely the sole cause of obstructive sleep apnea.

What if my child refuses to wear a CPAP mask?

This is common. Pediatric sleep specialists have many tricks to help kids adjust, including special masks and desensitization techniques.

Does removing tonsils always fix the problem?

It has a very high success rate for obstructive sleep apnea in children, but your doctor will monitor your child to make sure the apnea is fully resolved.