Snoring in children is a common occurrence that can understandably cause concern for parents. While often a harmless and temporary phenomenon, it can sometimes signal an underlying health issue. Recognizing the difference between typical and concerning snoring patterns is important for a child’s overall well-being and development.
Why Children Snore
Snoring in children happens when the airflow through the nose and mouth to the lungs is disrupted, causing tissues around the airway to vibrate. Mild, infrequent snoring is common, affecting an estimated 10% to 20% of children. This can be due to temporary factors such as congestion from a cold or seasonal allergies, which inflame the nasal passages and throat, making breathing less smooth.
Enlarged tonsils and adenoids are a common cause of snoring in younger children. These tissues, located at the back of the throat and nose, can be naturally larger in children and may swell further due to infection, partially blocking the airway. Sleeping position can also play a role, as children are more likely to snore when lying on their backs.
Identifying Concerning Snoring Patterns
While light, occasional snoring is often benign, certain patterns warrant closer attention. Snoring that is loud and occurs frequently, such as three or more nights per week, can indicate a serious issue. Parents should observe for gasping or choking sounds during sleep, as well as noticeable pauses in breathing, known as apneas.
Other red flags include restless sleep, where a child tosses and turns frequently, or experiences night sweats. Daytime symptoms are important indicators. These can manifest as excessive sleepiness, difficulty concentrating, or behavioral changes such as hyperactivity, irritability, or mood swings. Morning headaches or bedwetting can also suggest disturbed sleep.
Potential Health Consequences
Chronic, problematic snoring, particularly when it is a symptom of Pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea (POSA), can have health implications for children. POSA involves repeated partial or complete blockages of the airway during sleep, leading to fragmented sleep and reduced oxygen levels. This affects physical development, as quality sleep is necessary for growth and tissue repair. Children with untreated POSA may experience growth challenges or have difficulty gaining weight.
Disrupted sleep can also impact a child’s cognitive function. Children may struggle with concentration, memory, and learning, which can affect their academic performance. Behavioral issues such as hyperactivity, inattention, aggression, or irritability are common in children with sleep-disordered breathing. These symptoms are sometimes mistaken for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Severe, untreated POSA can lead to cardiovascular issues, including high blood pressure or heart strain.
Addressing Snoring Concerns
If parents identify concerning snoring patterns or associated symptoms, seeking medical advice is important. A pediatrician can assess the situation and determine if a specialist, such as an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor or a sleep specialist, is necessary. Doctors may recommend an overnight sleep study, also known as a polysomnogram, to accurately diagnose sleep-disordered breathing and determine its severity. This test monitors sleep functions, including brain waves, eye movements, muscle tone, breathing patterns, and oxygen levels.
Management strategies vary depending on the underlying cause and severity. Lifestyle adjustments, such as helping a child maintain a healthy weight or encouraging side sleeping, can be beneficial. For snoring related to allergies, medications like nasal steroid sprays or antihistamines might be prescribed. When enlarged tonsils and adenoids are the primary cause, surgical removal (adenotonsillectomy) is often effective to clear the airway. In cases where surgery is not an option or if symptoms persist, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, which uses a mask to deliver air pressure and keep the airway open, may be recommended.