Children can have different health problems while sleeping, just like adults. Sleep apnea is a condition that causes your child to have difficulty breathing while they sleep. Sleep apnea can be accompanied by other symptoms, and may also have other causes. Dr. Shukla, a top-rated sleep doctor in NYC, can help you or your child determine the best treatment and diagnosis. Can child sleep apnea be treated?
Can Child Sleep Apnea Be Treated?
If you have wondered, “Can child sleep apnea be treated?”, then you are not alone. Continue reading for important information on pediatric sleep issues. Contact us today to learn more and get the best treatment options for your child’s health.
What is Sleep Apnea in Children?
Many people don’t know what sleep apnea is. This is why it is so important to fully understand the condition before treatment. This condition is also known as obstructive or sleep apnea. It occurs when someone stops breathing during sleep. A blockage in the airways can cause a temporary lapse of oxygen transfer to the brain. This causes the body to work harder to breathe. Most often, the physical movement of breathing allows for breathing to resume.
Why Do Kids Need Quality Sleep?
Sleep is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle. Studies have shown that children who sleep enough are more attentive, better at learning, and have better mental health. Insufficient sleep can lead to high blood pressure, obesity, depression, and other health problems.
How Much Sleep Does My Child Need?
The amount of sleep your child needs each night will depend on their age. Infants younger than 1 month will typically sleep for 15-18 hours each night in 1-2 hour increments. In 6-8 weeks, your child will adapt to the day-night cycle. They can sleep up to six hours, and should be sleeping at least 15 hours.
Children between the ages of 1-3 years and adults should get 14 hours of sleep per night. This is a combination of long naps, bedtime, and a mix of naps. By age 6, children should be getting between 10-12 hours of sleep each night. Children may fall asleep between 8-10 hours each night as they grow up and become teens or preteens. These are only averages. You can still decide how much sleep your child needs to feel restful.
What Causes Sleep Apnea in Children?
There are many factors that can cause sleep apnea in children. This condition is more common in children with enlarged tonsils and adenoids. Sleep apnea can also be caused by other health problems, such as hypotonia, craniofacial disorders, and thyroid problems. Your child should be taken to the doctor to have their breathing and sleep patterns evaluated.
Understanding Sleep Apnea Symptoms
Your child could experience many symptoms of obstructive sleeping apnea throughout the night, or even while awake. The most common symptoms are:
- Restlessness at night and during the day
- Major fatigue
- Loss of concentration and focus
- Snoring and gasping during sleep
- Nightmares and frequent restless nights
- Persistent headaches
- Hyperactivity and social issues
- Sleepless nights with no sleep.
These symptoms can be similar to other conditions so make sure your child is diagnosed correctly. The doctor will test for signs of sleep apnea, including brain activity, blood oxygen, muscle activity, and electrical activity in the heart. A thorough evaluation is important to ensure that your child receives the best possible care.
Get the Best Sleep Apnea Care for Kids Today
Sleep MD NYC can help you make the most of your visit to our specialized diagnostic centers. Obstructive sleep apnea is a condition where your child experiences frequent breathing problems, irritations, and fatigue. It is important that both you and your child understand the health risks of pediatric sleep apnea in order to access the type of care that your kid really needs. Schedule an appointment at your earliest convenience to learn more. For the sake of your child’s well-being and health, invest in the best sleep disorder treatment in NYC. Do not allow your child’s condition to get worse, especially if it is affecting their ability to breathe properly.
