8 Factors Behind Sleep Apnea In Children

Sleep apnea in children is a nightmare for any child and their parents. It is the cause of a number of complications, which hampers our children’s ability to develop and thrive. This is why protecting our children from this sleep disorder is of the utmost importance.

As adults, we are aware of the many complications that can come out of the condition. However, a child with this type of sleeping disorder is another story. The effects of the condition can be devastating to adults; what more in children.

The sleeping disorder is the cause of disruptive psychological behavior and learning disabilities. In any case, these psychological and learning disabilities, accompanied by the physical strain, will have adverse effects on your child.

Sleep Apnea Causes In Children

There are various factors that are behind sleep apnea in children. In order to protect our children from impending health risks, identifying these factors are a must.

Here are those factors:

1. Enlarged Adenoids

- Adenoids are tissue masses found where the mouth and nose are joined
- The enlargement of the adenoids can very well be the cause of airway obstruction

2. Dental Deformities

- Dental deformities such as large overbites can cause obstructions in the airway

3. Obesity

- Although the majority of children with the sleeping disorder are not obese, obesity can be the cause
- Obesity can cause fatty tissue to buildup along the airways and cause obstructions

4. Cranial Abnormalities

- Cranial abnormalities or defects to the structure of the head can cause obstructions in the airway

5. Facial Abnormalities

- Facial defects or underdeveloped facial features can cause obstructions to the airways

6. Medication

- Certain types of medication can cause the muscles in the airways to over relax and cause obstruction

7. Mucopolysaccharidoses

- The inability to produce the required amount of enzymes to break down sugar, or the production of enzymes that do not function properly
- These sugars are essential in the production of connective tissue, bones, cartilage, corneas, skin, tendons, and skin
- Mucopolysaccharidoses will cause deformities that are behind the sleep apnea in children

8. Hypertonia

- The stiffness of muscles and its inability to stretch
- This disorder also affects the muscles in the airways and is the cause of obstruction

Treatment

Conventional methods of treatment are the most common methods of treating the sleeping condition in children. In severe cases, surgery is required.

Knowing children, conventional methods of treatment may be a challenge for children to successfully accept. This is why the alternatives are worth a try. The alternatives are not at all invasive and can be fun, which is the best treatment for children.

To receive a FREE e-course on 7 proven sleep apnea treatments (that don’t use CPAP), please click here.

Share and Enjoy: