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Children and OSA
February 12, 2009 |
Millions of Americans are affected with obstructive sleep apnea but it is often
undiagnosed. It’s a common problem in children and if left untreated can contribute
to other health issues.
Dr. Jose Colon is a pediatric neurologist with the Children’s Hospital of Southwest
Florida. He says, “We’re finding now that sleep disorders, such as obstructive sleep
apnea, can directly contribute to heart disease, stroke and even obesity.” Obstructive
sleep apnea is caused by obstructions of the airway. In children, the most common
cause is enlarged tonsils and adenoids.
However, obesity may also be a factor. “Obesity can cause obstructive sleep apnea
because you do have an increase in your neck circumference and the airway can collapse,”
adds Dr. Colon. One of the treatments for obese patients with obstructive sleep
apnea is Continuous Positive Airway Pressure, or CPAP, which is a mask that provides
constant pressure to prevent the airway from collapsing during the night. Dr. Colon
says, “Obesity can increase your risk for obstructive sleep apnea, but also weight
loss is a treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. So treating the obstructive sleep
apnea with CPAP and then also trying to initiate a nice diet and exercise program
can further help in treatment over the long run of obstructive sleep apnea.”
Some symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea in children include snoring, pauses in
breathing, mouth breathing and hyperactivity during the day.
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