Tuesday, September 4, 2012

American Academy of Pediatrics Recommends Sleep Apnea Testing for Children who Snore


According to new recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics, all children should be screened for snoring—and children who do snore should receive additional testing for sleep apnea.

The recommendations were published in the most recent issue of the medical journal Pediatrics and were based on a review of 350 studies on sleep apnea and children. “It is important for children exhibiting signs of [obstructive sleep apnea] to get a comprehensive diagnosis … If left untreated, [obstructive sleep apnea] can result in problems such as behavioral issues, cardiovascular problems, poor growth and developmental delays.”

In children, adenotonsillar hypertrophy is the leading cause of obstructive sleep apnea. The AAP recommends that children who suffer from this condition have their tonsils and adenoids removed.

Although snoring is common among those who suffer from sleep apnea, most people experience multiple sleep apnea symptoms, and not everyone who snores has sleep apnea. This, coupled with the dangers of sleep apnea, is why the AAP advises sleep testing for children who snore.

There are a number of comfortable and effective sleep apnea treatments available for both children and adults. A dentist with experience in the field of dental sleep medicine can help you determine if you suffer from sleep apnea and recommend a custom treatment option such as an oral appliance.

If you or a loved one snores or experiences other symptoms of sleep apnea, please contact IHateCPAP.com to locate a qualified sleep dentist near you.

http://www.ihateheadaches.org/