What is the best treatment for sleep apnea in children?

Kids sleep apnea treatment Seattle, Bellevue, Woodinville

If you’re a parent and your child has been diagnosed with sleep apnea, then you may be wondering what comes next. It’s very important that the child receives the right treatment, because studies have shown that sleep apnea can impair a child’s academic performance and is associated with both inattention and hyperactivity.

What are the treatment options for a child who has sleep apnea? How can you make the right decision for your child?

Surgery

One common treatment for sleep apnea in children is a surgery known as tonsillectomy/adenoidectomy. This is the removal of the tonsils and adenoids, which are pieces of immune system tissue at the back of the throat and back of the nose. In general, these tissues are far larger in children than in adults. For some children, the tonsils and/or adenoids can be so large that they narrow the airway significantly, making it much more likely that the child will experience breathing difficulties at night. Removing the tonsils and adenoids can help to open up space for airflow.

Research has shown that this surgical procedure is effective in many children with sleep apnea. The success rates vary widely, with studies reporting anywhere from 24% to 72%. However, this is a major surgery requiring general anesthesia, and as such, it does carry some level of risk. Many parents would prefer to avoid surgery for their children unless all other options have been exhausted.

CPAP machines

Like in adults, a CPAP machine can be useful for treating sleep apnea in children. However, even adults often find the machine uncomfortable, and many don’t use it as directed. With kids, who may not really understand the importance of using the CPAP, it can be very difficult to get them to use this treatment on a nightly basis.

Oral device therapy

An oral device is a small plastic mouthpiece that’s worn at night, to prevent the jaw and tongue from collapsing into the airway. This is a minimally invasive treatment. The device must be worn every night, and so there may be some issues with compliance in children. However, it’s generally easier to get children to wear an oral device than a CPAP machine, since it’s far more comfortable.

Discuss your options for sleep apnea treatment in children – we offer kids sleep apnea treatment Seattle, Bellevue, Woodinville area

If your child has sleep apnea, it’s very important that you seek the right treatment. Untreated sleep apnea can have a serious negative impact on a child’s academic performance and health.

You need the advice of an expert to discover the best treatment for your child. With a specialty in sleep dentistry, Dr. Mulliken can offer you the evaluation and guidance that you need to help your child feel and perform at their best. Please contact us to schedule an appointment.