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What is sleep apnea in children?

Sleep apnea in children is a condition in which a child's breathing is repeatedly interrupted during sleep hours. The condition can result in poor sleep quality, daytime fatigue, and various health issues. Children with sleep apnea may snore, experience pauses in breathing, and show signs of restless sleep. Any snoring at all in children is not usual and requires a consultation.

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Types of sleep apnea in children

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): Similar to adults, OSA is the most common type in children. It occurs when the airway becomes partially or completely blocked, often due to enlarged tonsils or adenoids. An important takeaway, if you have your child's tonsils and adenoids removed, is to track their nasal breathing, which is commonly neglected.

Central Sleep Apnea (CSA): This is less common and involves the central nervous system failing to signal the muscles that control breathing during sleep.

What are the symptoms of pediatric sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea in children can present with a range of symptoms that may vary depending on the severity of the condition. Identifying these signs early on is crucial for effective intervention and improving a child's overall well-being. Here are some common symptoms of sleep apnea in children:

  • Snoring & Pauses in breathing: Snoring and pauses in breathing can be challenging to identify. If you observe your child arching their neck upward during sleep, it may be indicative of sleep-disordered breathing.
  • Restless sleep: Children with sleep apnea may toss and turn frequently throughout the night, potentially leading to disrupted sleep patterns.
  • Mouth breathing: Sleep apnea can cause a child to breathe through their mouth more often, especially during sleep.
  • Daytime sleepiness: If a child is often drowsy or exhibits excessive daytime sleepiness, it could indicate poor sleep quality due to sleep apnea.
  • Behavioral changes: Children with sleep apnea may experience mood swings, irritability, difficulty focusing, and other behavioral changes.
  • Bedwetting: Sleep apnea can sometimes contribute to bedwetting, as disrupted sleep patterns may affect bladder control.
  • Growth issues: Sleep apnea can impact growth and development in children, leading to concerns about height and weight gain.
  • Hyperactivity: Sleep apnea might be misdiagnosed as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) due to similar symptoms like inattention and hyperactivity.
  • Frequent nightmares: Children with sleep apnea may experience more frequent nightmares or night sweats.
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Early intervention matters.

Recognizing these symptoms and seeking professional evaluation is crucial. If you suspect your child may have sleep apnea, our experienced team at San Francisco Center for TMJ and Sleep Apnea can provide comprehensive assessments and tailored treatments to ensure your child's healthy sleep and overall well-being. Intervening while child patients have what some parents deem to be questionable symptoms can prevent your child from suffering from the downstream consequences of sleep apnea, such as increased risk for heart disease, stroke, diabetes, obesity, mood disorders, and Alzheimer's disease.

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Treatment options for children with sleep apnea

  • Tonsil removal: Dion Health works with a team of experienced ENTs in the event your child needs tonsil removal to address obstructed breathing and pediatric sleep apnea. 
  • Tongue tie treatments: Tongue tie, or ankyloglossia, can contribute to breathing and speaking issues in children. At the San Francisco Center for TMJ and Sleep Apnea, we offer comprehensive tongue tie therapy to address this condition and improve overall well-being.
  • Orthodontic and oral appliance therapy: Oral appliances can help address sleep apnea in children by adjusting jaw and tongue positions to keep the airway open.
  • Myofunctional therapy: This therapy focuses on improving oral muscle strength and function, which can contribute to better breathing during sleep.

Understanding Pediatric Sleep Apnea Treatment with CT Scans

In pediatric cases of sleep apnea, CT scans are instrumental in providing detailed images of the upper airway and craniofacial structures. These scans help identify any anatomical abnormalities that may contribute to sleep-disordered breathing in children. By offering insights into airway obstructions or other issues, CT scans play a crucial role in the diagnosis and treatment planning for pediatric sleep apnea. It's important to note the role of CT scans in pediatric sleep apnea treatment may vary based on individual cases. A comprehensive evaluation, including clinical assessments and personalized medical advice, is recommended for precise diagnosis and treatment planning.

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What sets us apart in treating pediatric sleep apnea?

At San Francisco Center for TMJ and Sleep Apnea, we take a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach to help children achieve healthy sleep and overcome sleep apnea. Our team understands that children's health is a delicate balance, and we work together to provide the most effective and personalized treatment plans.

Medical expertise

Our experienced medical professionals specialize in pediatric sleep disorders. Dr. Amin Samadian, Diplomate of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, is a visionary in the field of TMJ and sleep apnea treatments and leads the team with a deep understanding of the intricate relationship between orofacial health, airway function, and sleep quality.

Holistic care

We believe that treating sleep apnea in children requires addressing the underlying causes and promoting overall well-being. Our holistic approach considers not only the physical aspects but also the emotional and psychological factors that can impact a child's sleep health.

Collaborative approach

Our team collaborates across medical disciplines, including orthodontics, dentistry, myofunctional therapy, and more. This collaborative effort ensures a comprehensive assessment and a tailored treatment plan that considers the unique needs of each child.

State-of-the-art treatments

We offer a range of cutting-edge treatments and therapies designed to address sleep apnea in children. From orthodontic interventions to oral appliances, we utilize advanced techniques to provide effective and comfortable solutions, ideal for younger people, including children.

Personalized care

We understand that each child is different, and our treatments are performed with kindness and warm, caring communication. We provide customized approaches that yield the best results by considering various factors such as age, medical history, and individual concerns.

Holistic care

We believe that treating sleep apnea in children requires addressing the underlying causes and promoting overall well-being. Our holistic approach considers not only the physical aspects but also the emotional and psychological factors that can impact a child's sleep health.

Collaborative approach

Our team collaborates across medical disciplines, including orthodontics, dentistry, myofunctional therapy, and more. This collaborative effort ensures a comprehensive assessment and a tailored treatment plan that considers the unique needs of each child.

State-of-the-art treatments

We offer a range of cutting-edge treatments and therapies designed to address sleep apnea in children. From orthodontic interventions to oral appliances, we utilize advanced techniques to provide effective and comfortable solutions, ideal for younger people, including children.

We understand that each child is different, and our treatments are performed with kindness and warm, caring communication. We provide customized approaches that yield the best results by considering various factors such as age, medical history, and individual concerns.

Why choose us?

Our team at the San Francisco Center for TMJ and Sleep Apnea brings extensive expertise in treating sleep apnea in children. Our holistic approach addresses the underlying causes of sleep apnea, helping children achieve healthier breathing and improved sleep quality. With a combination of evidence-based treatments, personalized care, and a commitment to holistic health, we strive to make a positive impact on the lives of children and their families.

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