Should I Worry About My Child’s Sleep Issues? | Dr. Anil Kumar Sapare

Sleep is crucial for a child's development and overall well-being, but what happens when your child is having disturbed sleep? If your child frequently struggles with breathing issues during sleep, it could be a sign of a condition known as sleep-disordered breathing (SDB). This condition is often characterized by snoring, mouth breathing, difficulty in breathing through the nose, and restless nights.

While occasional snoring may not be a concern, persistent or severe symptoms should not be ignored. Sleep-disordered breathing can lead to poor sleep quality, daytime fatigue, and can even affect a child’s learning and behavior. In some cases, untreated sleep apnea or other sleep-related issues can impact a child's physical growth and development.

Dr. Anil Kumar Sapare, a Consultant in Paediatrics and Pulmonology at Narayana Health City, Bangalore, explains the common signs of sleep disorders in children, the causes behind them, and when you should seek medical help. In this video, Dr. Sapare sheds light on the possible reasons for disturbed sleep, such as nasal congestion, enlarged tonsils, or even allergies, and how these factors contribute to sleep difficulties in children. He also provides insights on how sleep-disordered breathing can affect a child’s quality of life and offers guidance on how to address it.

Common Symptoms of Sleep-Disordered Breathing:
Snoring: Persistent snoring is one of the first signs that a child may be experiencing sleep-disordered breathing. This is especially concerning if it is loud and frequent.
Mouth Breathing: Children with SDB often breathe through their mouths instead of their noses while sleeping, which may lead to dry mouth or throat irritation.
Difficulty Breathing Through the Nose: A child might appear to struggle with nasal breathing, especially when congested or during sleep, leading to pauses or irregularities in their breathing.
Restlessness: Sleep-disordered breathing can cause children to wake up frequently during the night, causing restlessness and difficulties staying asleep.
Daytime Fatigue: A lack of quality sleep can result in irritability, difficulty concentrating, and a tendency to fall asleep during the day.
Behavioral Changes: Children with sleep-related breathing issues may show signs of hyperactivity, mood swings, or poor academic performance due to inadequate rest.
Potential Causes of Sleep-Disordered Breathing in Children:
Enlarged Tonsils or Adenoids: Enlarged tonsils or adenoids can obstruct the airway, leading to difficulty breathing, snoring, and disturbed sleep.
Nasal Congestion: Allergies, colds, or sinus infections can cause nasal congestion, making it difficult for children to breathe through their noses.
Obesity: Excess weight can put pressure on the respiratory system and lead to obstructive sleep apnea, particularly in older children.
Asthma or Respiratory Conditions: Conditions such as asthma or other chronic respiratory issues can cause breathing problems at night, resulting in disturbed sleep.
When Should You Seek Medical Attention?
If your child consistently shows signs of sleep-disordered breathing, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional. Timely diagnosis and intervention can prevent the development of more serious conditions, such as obstructive sleep apnea, which can have long-term consequences if left untreated.

For more information, consult Dr. Anil Kumar Sapare through a video consultation: https://bit.ly/2z7Y0Bd

Visit our website: https://www.narayanahealth.org

Follow us on social media:

Facebook:   / narayanahealth  
Instagram:   / narayanahealthindia  
Twitter:   / narayanahealth  
Blog: https://www.narayanahealth.org/blog/
LinkedIn:   / narayanahealth  
Quora: https://www.quora.com/profile/Narayan...