Pediatric Sleep & Breathing
Approximately 10% of children have Sleep Disordered Breathing (snore regularly) and about 2-4% of kids have Obstructive Sleep Apnea.
Sleep Disordered Breathing is a general term used to describe a condition when an individual has breathing difficulties during sleep. It can range from loud snoring to Obstructive Sleep Apnea, when an individual has repeated episodes of partial or complete blockage of the airway during sleep.
What are the Symptoms?
- Loud snoring
- Gasping or snorting noises
- Irritable, sleepy during the day
- Difficulty concentrating in school
- Busy or hyperactive behavior
Why should it be treated?
There are many potential consequences of untreated pediatric sleep disordered breathing including:
- Social reasons: If a child shares a room or has a sleepover, it can become a social issue
- Behavior/Learning: If a child is not getting enough sleep, he or she can become inattentive or disruptive at home and/or school
- Growth: Children with sleep disorders may not produce enough growth hormone which could harm their growth and development
- Obesity: Sleep disorders may cause the body to have resistance to insulin and drowsiness can decrease physical activity leading to childhood obesity
- Cardiovascular: Obstructive Sleep Apnea has been linked to high blood pressure and other heart and lung conditions
What can we do?
At Hampton Roads Pediatric Dentistry, we are certified to diagnose and treat children with sleep disorders using special mouth appliances. Call us to schedule a consultation for your child.
