Thursday, January 10, 2013

Children, Snoring and Obstructive Sleep Apnea


As awareness of the dangers of sleep apnea grows, an increasing number of parents have become concerned about whether their children may suffer from sleep apnea or another sleep disorder.

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), the most common and dangerous type of sleep apnea, has long been linked to severe health problems such as an increased risk for heart disease, hypertension and stroke. OSA can also cause daytime drowsiness, difficulty focusing and mood changes. Mounting evidence suggests a link between sleep apnea and attention-deficit disorder in children.

As with adults, one of the most common symptoms of sleep apnea in children is regular snoring. While many children snore at least occasionally, loud, chronic snoring is often an indicator of sleep apnea; disruptive snoring may also be the result of other conditions such as obesity, allergies, or enlarged tonsils and adenoids.

If not treated, sleep apnea can lead to behavioral problems, impaired learning and anxiety, among other issues. The good news is that there are a number of sleep apnea treatment options available.

A dentist with experience in the field of dental sleep medicine can help determine the source of you or your child’s sleep apnea and recommend a custom treatment for your unique needs. In many cases, the use of an oral appliance similar to a sports mouthguard can effectively and comfortably treat the cause of sleep apnea and help restore restful sleep.

If you or a loved one suffers from routine snoring or other symptoms of sleep apnea, please contact IHateCPAP.com to locate a qualified sleep dentist near you.

http://www.ihateheadaches.org/