In times past, sleep apnea was considered to be more specific to adults. Recent data shows that its effects are broadening, as more children are now developing the condition. The most common form is obstructive sleep apnea in Lawton, which is also referred to as OSA. There is further evidence that secondhand smoke (SHS) can be a huge contributor to childhood development of OSA. As you continue reading, a local expert explains what the connection is between the two.
What is OSA?
For people with OSA, there is a partial or full blockage of their airway while they sleep that makes it difficult for oxygen to flow. This can cause loud snoring and interruptions in their rest, as with each lapse in breathing, their brain sends a distress signal that awakens them. As a result, they are left feeling tired and lethargic the next day.
Here are some of the symptoms that are more prevalent among children:
- Bed-wetting
- Behavioral challenges
- Inability to focus
- Frequent mood swings
How Secondhand Smoke Can Contribute to OSA
It’s rare for kids between the ages of three and 18 to develop OSA. However, according to results published in the International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology, children who are exposed to SHS have a greater chance of developing mild to severe forms of the condition. This can possibly be attributed to SHS decreasing their natural oxygen saturation.
Why SHS Smoke is a Big Deal
When a person smokes, the effects don’t stop with him or her. The fumes that are exhaled carry the same toxic signature into the air. Alarmingly, studies show that since 1964, nearly 3 million nonsmokers have died from health problems caused by exposure to SHS.
To make matters worse, children who suffer from OSA are more susceptible to a host of health issues, which includes diabetes, hypertension and heart disease. Thankfully, there is a path to recovery available.
How OSA Can be Treated
The most common ways of treating OSA are with a CPAP machine and oral sleep appliance. The former consists of a facial mask that is connected to an air pump that forces oxygen into the throat while a person sleeps.
For patients who have difficulty with this method, there is the option of an oral appliance. The custom designed mouthguard gently shifts the jaw forward to allow for better airflow and uninterrupted rest.
Through a combination of parents abstaining from smoking and a child receiving care from a sleep dentist in Lawton to overcome OSA, he or she can go on to lead a normal and fulfilling life.
About the Author
Dr. David J. Drummond is a graduate of Northwestern University Dental School in Chicago. He has since gone on to provide nearly 40 years of superb dental care. Dr. Drummond helps children get the rest they need by treating OSA at Stop Snoring Lawton, and he can be reached for more information through his website.