When a child stops breathing briefly during sleep, it’s not normal—it’s pediatric sleep apnea, a condition where breathing is repeatedly interrupted during sleep due to blocked airways or brain signaling issues. It’s more common than most parents realize, affecting up to 5% of children, and often goes undiagnosed because the symptoms look like just being a restless sleeper. Unlike adult sleep apnea, kids don’t always feel tired during the day. Instead, they might act out in school, have trouble focusing, or grow slower than expected.
This isn’t just about snoring. obstructive sleep apnea in children, the most common type, happens when enlarged tonsils or adenoids block the airway. Other triggers include obesity, allergies, or even the shape of the jaw. child sleep disorders, a broader category that includes restless legs, insomnia, and night terrors, often overlap with sleep apnea, making it harder to spot. If your child breathes through their mouth at night, sweats heavily while sleeping, or wakes up gasping, these aren’t just quirks—they’re red flags.
Left untreated, pediatric sleep apnea can lead to high blood pressure, learning delays, and even heart problems. The good news? Many cases are fixable. Removing tonsils, managing allergies, or using a CPAP machine designed for kids can make a huge difference. Some children outgrow it as they grow, but others need early intervention to avoid long-term damage.
You’ll find real stories here—parents who noticed their child stopped breathing at night, doctors who missed the signs, and the simple tests that changed everything. We’ve gathered posts that cover everything from how to tell if your child’s snoring is dangerous, to what happens during a sleep study, to the surprising link between sleep apnea and ADHD-like behavior. These aren’t theory pieces—they’re practical guides from families who’ve been there.
Pediatric sleep apnea is often caused by enlarged tonsils and adenoids. Surgery to remove them is the first-line treatment, but CPAP is used when surgery isn't an option or fails. Early diagnosis prevents long-term health issues.