Sleep apnea in Lawton is a growing condition that affects over 22 million Americans. Of that population, around 7 million are children. Medical professionals have discovered how a dangerous condition – a narrow airway – can contribute to greater instances of sleep apnea among children. Read on to learn what the symptoms are, why it’s dangerous to ignore them and the available treatment options.
What is Sleep Apnea?
For people who have sleep apnea, there are frequent pauses in their breathing throughout the night. The most common form of the condition is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which refers to a partial blockage of the airway.
When airflow is inhibited and breathing stops, the brain sends a message through the nervous system to awaken the person. Because this can happen several times during a normal sleep cycle, the usual benefits of a night of slumber are lost.
The Other Warning Signs of Sleep Apnea
One of the more typical symptoms of sleep apnea is loud snoring, which is the result of oxygen attempting to pass through a restricted area. Here are some other indicators that are more common among children:
- Irritability
- Bedwetting
- Hyperactivity
- Inability to focus
- Behavioral issues at school
How a Narrow Airway Can Lead to OSA
If your child has a narrow airway, his or her chances of developing sleep apnea increase. The normal opening of the throat is around 7 millimeters (mm), but among children who have an abnormally restricted airway, the opening can be as small as 1 mm. That translates into the child receiving only 15% of the normal amount of oxygen.
As a natural adjustment, there may be a shift to mouth-breathing, but this can be detrimental for the following reasons:
- It can further compromise the flow of air for children who have bite issues.
- The proper exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide can be disrupted.
- It can prevent the proper function of the tongue and hinder the child’s ability to speak, swallow and chew efficiently.
- The tonsils can become swollen and enlarged, which can further limit the flow of air.
It’s important to not ignore any of these warning signs because obstructed breathing can lead to serious conditions like childhood obesity, hypertension and heart disease. That’s because without the proper flow of oxygen, the body is unable to repair itself at night.
Is There Any Help Available?
The first step to having your child’s health restored is to receive a proper diagnosis. This starts with completing an Epworth Sleepiness Scale assessment, which your dentist will use the results of to determine whether your child is likely to be suffering from sleep apnea.
You’ll then meet with your dentist for a consultation. The professional will then schedule a sleep test to be conducted by a local sleep medicine clinic so your child can receive an accurate diagnosis.
The Treatment Options
If your child is diagnosed with sleep apnea, then either a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine or an oral appliance can be used to maintain the proper flow of oxygen throughout the night. While both options can deliver positive results, there are some differences.
The CPAP Machine
The CPAP machine consists of a base unit, connecting tube and mask. Its function is to force air into the throat while your child sleeps.
While it can be effective, many patients don’t find it to be a comfortable application.
An Oral Appliance
An alternative is an oral appliance. The custom-designed mouthpiece helps to shift the jaw and allow for more oxygen to flow.
If you suspect your child has sleep apnea, reach out to your local sleep dentist to start the testing process. With careful attention and the proper therapy, your child can get the rest he or she needs to be healthy and flourish.
About the Author
Dr. David J. Drummond is a graduate of Northwestern University Dental School in Chicago. With over 30 years of experience providing top-notch dental care, he combines his vast knowledge and commitment to excellence to help children overcome sleep apnea at Stop Snoring Lawton. Dr. Drummond can be reached for more information through his website.