What To Know About Snoring In Children.

Snoring in children can be normal, but it can also be a sign of an underlying issue. Here’s what you need to know:

Normal Snoring in Children

Up to 20% of children snore: Up to 20% of children snore: Snoring is relatively common in children, especially during sleep transitions or when they have a cold.

Typically harmless: In most cases, snoring in children is not a cause for concern and may resolve on its own.

Abnormal Snoring in Children

Sleep Apnea: Pauses in breathing during sleep, often accompanied by snoring, can indicate sleep apnea. This condition can lead to daytime fatigue, behavioral problems, and other issues.

Enlarged Tonsils or Adenoids: Large tonsils or adenoids can obstruct the airway, causing snoring and sleep disruptions.

Nasal Congestion: Chronic nasal congestion due to allergies, colds, or anatomical issues can cause mouth-breathing, leading to snoring.

Obesity: Excess weight can increase the risk of sleep apnea and snoring in children.

Growth or tumours: In the mouth, throat or on the neck can narrow the breathing passage and cause snoring.

Other Medical Conditions: Certain conditions, such as Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, or neuromuscular disorders, can increase the risk of sleep apnea and snoring.

When to be Concerned

Loud and persistent snoring

If your child's snoring is loud and persistent, child struggles to breathe and is restless during sleep, it may indicate an underlying issue.
Pauses in breathing

If you notice pauses in your child's breathing during sleep, seek medical attention.
Daytime sleepiness

If your child is excessively sleepy during the day, it may be a sign of sleep apnea or another sleep disorder.
Behavioral problems

If your child exhibits behavioral problems, such as hyperactivity or attention deficits, it could be related to sleep disruptions. Failure to thrive (FTT):
Failure to thrive (FTT)

If the snoring affects the child's ability to sleep soundly or child is losing weight and not growing as is expected of the age.

What to Do

Consult a pediatrician and/or ENT Specialists

If you're concerned about your child's snoring, consult with their pediatrician or ENT specialist to assess and advise.
Sleep study

A sleep study may be recommended to assess your child's sleep patterns and detect any potential sleep disorders.
Imaging

Child may also need to have x-rays of the breathing passage or CT-scan to evaluate the cause of the snoring and tailor it to the treatment.
Treatment

Depending on the underlying cause, treatment may involve topical nasal medications or anti- allergy medications, adenotonsillectomy (removal of tonsils and adenoids), weight management, or other interventions.

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