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Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that causes breathing interruptions while you sleep. It can occur in people of all ages, including toddlers and babies. These breathing disruptions can impact your sleep quality and cause other issues when you’re awake. For children, sleep apnea can result in behavioural issues, making it difficult for them to concentrate in school.
Snoring is just a description of the harsh noise brought on by vibration of the soft tissue of the throat. Snoring can be a benign event but habitual snoring can be an indication of the presence of sleep apnea.
Types of Sleep Apnea in Children
Obstructive sleep apnea may lead to a lower flow of oxygen to your child’s vital organs, abnormal heart rhythms, and breathing problems accompanied by loud gasps or jerking of the body.
Symptoms of Sleep Apnea in Children
Although snoring is one of the most obvious signs of sleep apnea, it does not always mean that your child suffers from this condition. Sleep apnea also doesn’t always lead to snoring. This is why it is important to observe your child’s daily behaviour for any signs and symptoms, as well as bring your child to an ENT doctor to get checked.
Here are some signs and symptoms of sleep apnea
Is Sleep Apnea Dangerous?
Sleep apnea may not always be dangerous for your child. However, in serious cases, obstructive sleep apnea can cause life-threatening conditions if left untreated. It interrupts sleep and can cause the body’s oxygen levels to fall. Sleep apnea can disrupt learning and cause poor concentration in the short term, and in the long run, it can lead to growth issues and problems with neurocognition.
If you notice signs and symptoms of sleep apnea in your child, it is recommended that you bring your child to an ENT doctor to seek treatment as soon as possible.
Looking for an ENT clinic in Singapore? The team at Dr Jenica Yong’s provide comprehensive care through the use of evidence-based medicine to treat any ENT conditions in adults and children. Schedule your medical appointment with us today.