Its a problem long thought to be a disorder of older, overweight men.� But in fact, sleep apnea is becoming more common among children and adolescents.� At the Sleep Disorders Center at Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center, increasing numbers of patients treated are children.
Obesity, Children & Sleep Apnea:
Sleep Apnea causes sleep deprivation.� The more sleep-deprived a child becomes the less active he or she is.� Less exercise can produce significant weight gain.
With an alarming trend of childhood obesity on the rise in the U.S., it is likely to add to the number of children diagnosed with sleep apnea.� According to the American Obesity Association, more than 30% of children between the ages of 6 and 11 are overweight and 15% are obese.� Adolescents age 12 to 19 show similar statistics.
In todays technologically advanced world, children are more likely to sit at a computer for several hours or play video games, as opposed to participating in more active exercises.� Such modern conveniences can also rob children of the necessary 8-10 hours they need for a successful nights rest.
Common Causes/Symptoms:
Aside from weight gain, one of the most common causes for sleep apnea among children is enlarged tonsils and/or adenoids.� A timely diagnosis is necessary to thwart a more serious problem.� A restless sleep, night after night, can lead to poor school performance, behavioral issues, irritability and lack of concentration/attention.� (These symptoms must be considered before or along with Attention Deficit Disorder.)� (ADD)
Early Intervention
Treating sleep apnea in your child is important, not only to put him or her on the fast track toward a comfortable nights sleep, but to minimize the negative impact of other health-related issues including obstructed breathing and heart conditions associated with sleep apnea.
At Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center, our Sleep Disorders Center specializes in the assessment and treatment of sleeping disorders for adults and children over the age of 5.
