Pregnancy And Baby Care Toddler Sleep Toddler Sleep Apnea

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While there are several types of sleep apnea, it is obstructive sleep apnea that is the most common cause of sleep apnea in toddlers.

Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

The most telling signs of sleep apnea are snoring, restless sleep, difficulty breathing while asleep (the toddler often breathes through the mouth), constant coughing and choking during the night, fatigue the next morning, etc.

Causes of Sleep Apnea

The main cause of sleep apnea in toddlers is obstructed sleep apnea. It results in the toddler’s airways to be obstructed by enlarged tonsils. In such a condition, enough oxygen doesn’t reach the toddler’s lungs. This causes heavy breathing. The result is restless sleep, interrupted sleep and fatigue. 

Sleep apnea can also be a result of blockage caused by allergies, excessive weight, having a receding chin or a cleft palate, etc.

Toddlers diagnosed with Down syndrome and other congenital conditions also tend to be prone to sleep apnea.

Sleep Apnea Treatment

Sleep apnea is a common condition, but it is important to track the condition. When your toddler first shows signs of sleep apnea inform the child’s pediatrician. In case of enlarged tonsils, doctors may suggest surgery.

Removing enlarged tonsils helps remove blockage.

On the other hand if blockages are caused by allergies, doctors may prescribe treatment for the allergies. As the allergy soothes the blockages reduces. Similarly if the child is overweight, exercise and controlled be recommended.

Precaution for Toddler Sleep Apnea

Along with the above mentioned, parents can take a few precautionary measures at home to ensure the child is more comfortable despite the sleep apnea. A few simple measures to ease the blockage and improve airflow to the toddler’s lungs include:

• Reposition the toddler when asleep - place the child on his side instead of his back. This will allow him to breathe easily and enjoy a complete night’s sleep without interruption.
• Use a humidifier – a humidifier will prevent the air from getting dry. This will ensure easier breathing conditions for the infant.
• Use props – make use of pillows and baby blankets to prop the baby up. This elevation relieves the pressure on his airways, allowing for smoother breathing.