Could Enlarged Tonsils Cause Sleep Apnea in Kids?

Does your child snore? Do they often appear tired or have trouble concentrating throughout the day? You might just think that they are exhausted—plus it’s kind of cute to see them snoring as if they are in a deep sleep. However, the reality is that you’re witnessing symptoms of sleep apnea and it should be addressed right away!

If you’re seeing these symptoms of sleep apnea, you should consider getting an evaluation for your little one. They deserve and need all the rest that they can get for their developing bodies. Learn more about sleep apnea in kids and how your local dentist can help you treat it.

Sleeping Disorders Can Occur in Children, Too!

Although it’s pretty rare, up to 4% of children can have the sleeping disorder sleep apnea. The symptoms begin at a young age. As with any form of sleep apnea, can be life threatening, which is why your local dentist highly encourages seeking treatment the moment you notice symptoms in your child’s behavior or sleeping habits.

Here are a few causes of obstructive sleep apnea that you may be able to notice when your little one is sleeping:

• Swollen tonsils can cause a blockage in the airway, creating disturbances in your child’s breathing while sleeping (obstructive sleep apnea).
• The tongue can also sit incorrectly within the mouth because of enlargement or even because of the large tonsils. This can also cause the airway to become partially or fully blocked.
• Your child’s lower jaw may fall back, trying to make room in the mouth. But this can also interrupt breathing while sleeping.

Understand and Look Out for the Symptoms

The symptoms of adult sleep apnea and child sleep apnea are widely the same. Children may be extremely tired, wake up frequently during the night, or snore or make choking sounds throughout the night.  Your child may act out during the day because of their fatigue, despite going to bed on time. They may have trouble at school because of their difficulty concentrating and poor behavior.

If you’re able to, observe your child sleeping. If they breath with their mouth open consistently, this could be a sign. Also, ask your dentist for help trying to diagnose your child with sleep apnea. If you have any bit of an inkling that the disorder could be affecting your child’s sleeping habit, it’s better to be safe and speak to your dentist about it.

Your Dentist Can Help Your Child Get a Full Night of Rest Again

Depending on the cause of your child’s sleep apnea, they may need different types of treatment. For instance, if the cause is swollen tonsils, then your dentist can discuss removing them. Typically, this solves up to 90% of sleep apnea cases in children. Explore your treatment options by calling your dentist.

About Our Office

Here at Weatherford Dental Sleep Medicine, we want your whole family to be able to relax. It’s neither good for your child’s mental state or health to experience sleep apnea. Plus, you shouldn’t stress about your child when they lay down for the night. Get the help your family needs by contacting us today.