Understanding Mild Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) in Children
When we think of sleep apnea, we often picture an adult struggling with loud snoring and daytime fatigue. However, children can suffer from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) too, and even mild cases can have significant impacts on their health, behavior, and overall well-being. Mild OSA in children is often overlooked or misdiagnosed, yet it can lead to developmental and cognitive challenges if left untreated.
Symptoms and How to Recognize Them in Children
Mild obstructive sleep apnea in children often presents differently than it does in adults. While loud snoring is a common symptom, other signs can be more subtle, including:
- Restless sleep or frequent awakenings
- Mouth breathing, especially at night
- Daytime fatigue or difficulty waking up
- Hyperactivity or trouble concentrating (often mistaken for ADHD)
- Bedwetting beyond typical age expectations
- Pauses in breathing or gasping during sleep
If you’ve noticed any of these signs in your child, it’s important to seek medical evaluation to rule out OSA or other sleep-disordered breathing conditions.
My Personal Experience Navigating This with My Children
Two of my three children were diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea through sleep studies ordered by their pediatrician and ENT after I consistently fought for more support. Both of my children struggled to sleep through the night, but my daughter was irritable, angry, and waking up exhausted every single morning. I could tell visually that her teeth were caved in on one side, and we had already been to feeding therapy and OT for more support due to her having issues chewing food and her diagnosed tongue and lip tie. However, she was at an age where this procedure was not going to be easy (3 years old). She was sleepwalking, waking up multiple times per night, and we were all exhausted. Finally, our ENT ordered a sleep study, and sure enough, she had diagnosed sleep apnea.
My son’s first sleep study was unsuccessful at age 3, but I knew something was not right. We pushed to have him seen again at age 6—he was snoring during sleep, we were constantly in the ER for breathing issues that were way worse at night, and he was wetting the bed constantly. He had huge bags under his eyes and was sick all the time. Finally, both kids were referred to a sleep therapy and airway specialist who recommended extensive expander and airway support to address their sleep apnea and the overcrowding in their mouths, which was contributing to their airway issues.
My son’s case, in particular, was extreme for both oral and nasal airways. After undergoing treatment, we have seen improvements in our daughter’s condition, though we still have a long journey ahead. Her second sleep study revealed new findings, and her treatment plan has been adjusted accordingly.
The Impact of Untreated OSA on Development
Even mild OSA can have serious consequences if left untreated. Interrupted sleep prevents children from reaching deep, restorative sleep stages, which can lead to:
- Cognitive and Behavioral Issues: Poor sleep can result in difficulties with attention, memory, and learning, often mimicking symptoms of ADHD.
- Growth Delays: Sleep is critical for hormone regulation, including growth hormones.
- Weakened Immune System: Poor-quality sleep can make children more susceptible to frequent colds and infections.
- Heart and Metabolic Concerns: Studies show links between untreated sleep apnea and an increased risk of high blood pressure and obesity in children.
Steps to Get a Diagnosis and Treatment Options
If you suspect your child has mild obstructive sleep apnea, here’s what you can do:
- Consult with a Pediatrician or Sleep Specialist – Your child’s doctor may refer you to an airway-focused specialist, such as an orthodontist who treats sleep-disordered breathing.
- Consider a Sleep Study (Polysomnography) – A sleep study can measure oxygen levels, breathing interruptions, and overall sleep quality.
- Explore Treatment Options – Depending on the severity, treatment may include:
- Lifestyle changes (such as weight management if applicable)
- Allergy treatment (to reduce nasal congestion)
- Orthodontic intervention (palatal expanders or myofunctional therapy to improve airway development)
- Removal of enlarged tonsils or adenoids
- Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy in more severe cases
For parents seeking expert guidance on sleep therapy for children, I recommend learning more about sleep-disordered breathing and airway-focused treatments. A great resource for information is TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of Chicago, where specialists discuss sleep apnea solutions for children and adults. While they are a local practice, their website offers valuable insights into treatment options that may help you navigate this journey.
Tips for Parents Facing This Journey
- Trust your instincts – If something feels off with your child’s sleep, advocate for further evaluation.
- Document symptoms – Keep a sleep journal noting behaviors, snoring patterns, and energy levels.
- Seek airway-centered professionals – Not all doctors specialize in pediatric sleep apnea, so find an expert in airway health.
- Be patient and proactive – Treatment takes time, but small interventions can lead to big improvements.
Final Thoughts
Mild obstructive sleep apnea in children is more common than most parents realize, but with the right diagnosis and care plan, you can help your child achieve better sleep and long-term health. If you’re concerned about your child’s sleep, start by gathering information, speaking with professionals, and considering options tailored to your child’s unique needs.
Your child’s sleep matters—don’t hesitate to take the next step in advocating for their health and well-being.
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