Nervous new parents often worry that their baby is going to stop breathing at night. They may tiptoe to their crib and put their ear close to make sure those little lungs are doing what they’re supposed to do. As their child moves into the toddler stage with no nighttime breathing problems, mom and dad may stop worrying.
But…some young children do develop a nighttime breathing issue where they stop breathing for a few seconds repeatedly through the night. If so, the son or daughter may have obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.
What is obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) in children?
Obstructive sleep apnea in children is a condition where the son or daughter briefly stops breathing while asleep then starts breathing again. These lapses in breathing may occur dozens (or more) times per night. The majority of kids with this impairment are between the ages of 3 and 6.
What causes obstructive sleep apnea in children?
The issue lies with the actual mechanics of breathing. The lungs may be working fine, but there is an obstruction in the passages of the mouth and nose. These passages connect to the windpipe and lungs. As the lungs push air into the windpipe, the tissue blockage moves open and closed.
The muscles in the head and neck help keep the upper airway open. When the child falls asleep, these muscles often relax. As a result, tissues fold closer together. If the airway is partially obstructed while awake, falling asleep may cause the passageway to close completely.
OUR LOCATIONS:
The Woodlands 6922 W Rayford Rd #100
Spring, TX 77389PHONE: 281-320-2000
OUR LOCATIONS:
The Woodlands 6922 W Rayford Rd #100
Spring, TX 77389PHONE: 281-320-2000
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
OUR LOCATIONS:
The Woodlands 6922 W Rayford Rd #100
Spring, TX 77389PHONE: 281-320-2000
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