Obstructive sleep apnoea is when a child has repeated episodes when they stop breathing during sleep. This causes the oxygen to decrease and the carbon dioxide to increase in the body. The brain then signals the body to briefly awaken and start breathing again.
What causes obstructive sleep apnoea in children
The main risk factors for OSA in children are enlargement of the tonsils and adenoids. Any condition that reduces the size of the airway can also case OSA. Examples include, obesity, neuromuscular weakness from Down syndrome or Cerebral Palsy, facial abnormalities, and neurological conditions such as Muscular dystrophy.
What are the symptoms of OSA
Habitual snoring is the most common symptom of OSA. However a history is not sufficient to diagnose OSA as not all children who snore have OSA. Parents of children with OSA may also notice periods of cessation of breathing while asleep. Other symptoms of OSA include, daytime tiredness, concentration problems and morning headaches.
How is OSA diagnosed
Your doctor will take a detailed history and examine your child. Although most children with OSA have a normal examination, some display the cause of the obstruction, like enlarged tonsils. If OSA is suspected, an overnight polysomnogram (sleep study) will be done.
How is a polysomnogram done
Your child will be admitted to hospital overnight. One parent will be allowed to stay with the child. Different monitors are placed on your child to measure breathing patterns, airflow, oxygen saturation, brain waves and muscle movement during sleep. The monitors will be removed the following morning and you will be discharged. The results will be ready after about a week.
What is the treatment of OSA
If the tonsils and adenoids are enlarged, they can be removed. The operation is usually curative. In some instances where surgery is not possible or has failed, wearing a mask while sleeping at night may be needed. This mask is connected to a machine which pumps a small amount of air into the nose which keeps the airway open. This continuous positive airway pressure machine (CPAP) prevents blockage or airflow.
