Sleep apnea in adults and pediatric sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that can have serious outcomes. In this sleep disorder, the breathing of the affected child or adult repeatedly stops and starts. It is not something to be taken lightly and immediately needs consultation if you notice any of the below-mentioned symptoms in yourself or your child.
1. Symptoms of sleep apnea
Sleep apnea and snoring go hand in hand in most of the cases. This condition can be seen in adults as well as children. There are various types of sleep apnea that one can experience. The symptoms of this disorder can be broadly categorized as day-time and night-time symptoms. The main symptoms of this disorder include the following:
Sleep apnea and snoring are synonymous with each other in this medical condition. Snoring is a common symptom in both -adults and children. With loud snoring, the affected person cannot have a sound sleep. He or she keeps tossing and turning in bed. In some cases, one can experience sweating along with snoring.
When you get up in the morning and you have a dry mouth on most of the days, then visit your doctor for a consultation.
If you experience excessive sleepiness during the daytime, you should consult your doctor as this could be a symptom of sleep apnea.
Experiencing difficulty in staying asleep is also a prominent symptom of this disorder. Insomnia occurs as a consequence of sleep apnea and snoring in children and adults.
Getting irritated for small reasons and at regular intervals is another major symptom of this disorder. Regular mood swings could be indicative of sleep apnea and snoring.
If you are having problems in concentration and being inattentive regularly, then this could be a case of sleep apnea. Due to loud snoring, a person cannot enjoy a peaceful sleep. Hence, he may not be quite attentive or may also lack concentration while doing their daily activities.
Getting up in the middle of sleep with shortness of breath can be due to this disorder.
2. Other symptoms in children that could be indicative of sleep apnea
If there is a history of sleep apnea in the family, children are prone to get affected by it. In certain cases, certain medical conditions such as Down syndrome and cerebral palsy also cause this sleep disorder. Babies born with a low birth weight are also prone to sleep apnea. Other major symptoms in children include snoring, bed-wetting, and mouth breathing.
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a type of sleep apnea which is seen in children. Obesity can be a reason for the development of this condition in children. Some children also experience this kind of pediatric sleep apnea due to enlarged tonsils. Studies show 1 in 4 children in the country suffer from sleep apnea and snoring. Hence, one must be aware of the symptoms and take timely treatment should be taken to manage this condition.
Studies have shown a relationship between childhood obesity and sleep disorders. Hence, have your child checked by your physician if you notice any of the above symptoms in him or her. In the case of adults, if you experience any of the above-mentioned symptoms, immediately consult a doctor for treatment. This disorder can cause high blood pressure which increases the risk of heart attacks. If not treated, this disorder has fatal consequences.