A good night’s sleep is essential for a child’s growth, development, learning, behaviour, and overall wellbeing. However, some children struggle to breathe properly during sleep because of a condition called obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA).
Approximately 10% of children snore, and 2–4% of children have obstructive sleep apnoea. In many children, OSA is caused by enlarged tonsils and adenoids, and may be successfully treated by removing them.
The medical effects of obstructive sleep apnoea are often reversible once breathing improves. However, if OSA is left untreated for a long time, it may affect attention, behaviour, learning, and development – and these effects may only be partially reversible. Early identification and treatment are important.
What is obstructive sleep apnoea?
Obstructive sleep apnoea occurs when a child’s airway becomes partly or completely blocked during sleep. This can cause repeated pauses or interruptions in breathing throughout the night, often without the child being aware of it.
In children, the most common cause is enlarged tonsils and adenoids, which can narrow or block the airway during sleep.
What causes it?
The most common cause of OSA in children is enlarged tonsils and adenoids. Other factors may also contribute, including:
- frequent throat, sinus, or upper airway infections
- allergies and nasal congestion
- obesity in some children
- structural differences in the nose, mouth, jaw, or airway
Signs and symptoms to look out for:
OSA may be mistaken for simple snoring, but there are important warning signs. These may include:
- loud, persistent snoring
- pauses in breathing during sleep
- restless sleep or frequent waking
- mouth breathing
- night sweats
- daytime tiredness or irritability
- hyperactivity in some children
- difficulty concentrating
- behavioural changes
- concerns with learning or school performance
- bed wetting
In younger children, poor sleep may also affect growth, development, and daytime functioning.
When should you seek medical advice?
You should seek medical advice if your child snores regularly or has any symptoms that suggest disturbed breathing during sleep.
It is especially important to consult a healthcare professional if:
- snoring is loud and occurs most nights, especially when your child is
otherwise well
- you notice pauses in breathing during sleep
- your child sleeps restlessly or wakes frequently
- your child seems unusually tired, irritable, or hyperactive during the
day
- there are concerns about concentration, behaviour, learning, or growth
Early assessment can help prevent complications and improve your child’s quality of life.
Treatment: Adenotonsillectomy
One of the most effective treatments for children with OSA caused by enlarged tonsils and adenoids is an adenotonsillectomy.
This procedure involves removing both the tonsils and adenoids to open the airway and improve breathing during sleep.
Benefits may include:
- improved breathing during sleep
- better sleep quality
- improved concentration and behaviour
- increased energy levels
- improved growth, development, and overall wellbeing
- better quality of life for the child and family
Adenotonsillectomy is commonly performed in children, and many families notice a significant improvement in sleep and daytime functioning once they have recovered from surgery.
