Sleep is very important to a child’s development. Any type of sleep disorder can impair a child’s sleep patterns and lead to negative consequences. One of the most common sleep disorders in children is obstructive sleep apnea. There are three symptoms to be mindful of when diagnosing a child with obstructive sleep apnea.
- Enlarged Tonsils (adenotonsillar hypertrophy): The peak prevalence of childhood obstructive sleep apnea is at 2–8 years, which is the age when the tonsils and adenoids are the largest in relation to the underlying airway size. In most cases, the removal of the tonsils serves as an ultimate treatment of disordered breathing.
- Difficulty in Breathing & Snoring: Over 96% of cases of obstructive sleep apnea complain of snoring and difficulty in breathing. However, snoring alone cannot distinguish between children with obstructive sleep apnea and children with primary snoring. If your child appears to be restless during the night, frequently changing positions, these are warning signs of a sleep disorder.
- Behavioral Manifestations: Obstructive sleep apnea symptoms throughout the day may cause symptoms very similar to attention deficit hyperactivity, poor academic performance, and daytime drowsiness.
If your child is experiencing any symptom of obstructive sleep apnea, PDA is trained to help!
Among physicians treating children for Pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea, dentists are likely to identify some of the most common sleep disorder symptoms. As dentists examine children’s mouths, they can play an active role in identifying those with enlarged tonsils and referring them for sleep assessment. Pediatric dentists act as the gatekeepers in treating obstructive sleep apnea using a variety of different treatment options.
Pediatric Dental Associates serves as a top-rated pediatric dentist for Alabaster, Bessemer, Birmingham, Hoover, Helena, and Pelham, AL.