Pediatric obstructive sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which your child's breathing is partially or completely blocked repeatedly during sleep. The condition is due to narrowing or blockage of the upper airway during sleep.
There are differences between pediatric obstructive sleep apnea and adult sleep apnea. While adults usually have daytime sleepiness, children are more likely to have behavioral problems. The most common underlying condition of sleep apnea in children is enlargement of the adenoids and tonsils.
During sleep, signs and symptoms of pediatric sleep apnea might include:
- Snoring
- Pauses in breathing
- Restless sleep
- Snorting, coughing or choking
- Mouth breathing
- Nighttime sweating
- Bed-wetting
- Sleep terrors
During the day, children with sleep apnea might:
- Perform poorly in school
- Have difficulty paying attention
- Have learning problems
- Have behavioral problems
- Have poor weight gain
- Be hyperactive
