Pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

Snoring is considered abnormal at any age. Snoring and an obstructive sleep pattern in children can lead to a child with hyperactive tendencies, bedwetting, and learning difficulties to name a few. A good nights rest is important at all ages, but a child's brain is acutely sensitive to such a disruption. In children, the tonsils and adenoids, or adenoids alone, are frequently abnormally enlarged. They can cause a child to be a chronic mouth breather, snorer and have obstructive sleep patterns. Mouth breathing alone can lead to abnormal facial growth (adenoid facies) which can predispose a child to obstructive sleep apnea as an adult.

If snoring continues to be an issue once the tonsils and adenoids or sinus issues have been addressed, then a sleep study is indicated.

Possible Testing

• Lateral neck films/X-ray
• Computed tomography (CT) scan of the sinuses
• Sleep Study/Polysomnography

Possible Treatments

• Adenoidectomy
• Tonsillectomy & Adenoidectomy
• Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) for select patients
• Allergy Evaluation

Fact Sheets

• Pediatric Obesity and Ear, Nose and Throat Disorders
• Pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea