Is it ADHD, or does your child have Sleep Apnea?
Dr. Charles Kravitz, a Dental Sleep Medicine education advocate discusses ADHD and Sleep Apnea in children in the latest issue of the Sleep Magazine. Upcoming sleep seminars include San Diego, NYC and Denver to learn about Sleep Apnea in children and adults.
(Miami, FL) According to the National Sleep Foundation, more than 80 million Americans snore. Snoring, along with daytime fatigue, and moodiness are signs you may have sleep apnea. A recent article published in The Sleep Magazine, by Dr. Charles Kravitz explains the common confusion of ADHD and Sleep Apnea in children. Dentists can learn live with leading dental sleep medicine experts during upcoming lectures in San Diego, NYC and Denver.
The Stanford School of Medicine states that about 10% of children 10 years of age and younger snore and, of those children who snore, about 20% will have obstructive sleep apnea. “Not much is understood by parents about snoring or sleep apnea, especially in their children.” says Dr. Charles Kravitz. Sleep apnea is a serious medical condition that can interrupt or stop your child’s breathing, prevent a normal night’s sleep, impair growth, and lead to a lower quality of life. “It also can cause serious fatigue during the day which is why it is so often confused with ADHD. Sleep-disordered breathing such as snoring and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) have long been associated with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder).” says Dr. Kravitz
Many studies have been performed indicating a significant correlation between OSA and behavioral issues. Children with obstructive sleep apnea do not get restful sleep, and as a result may complain of morning headaches, be irritable and have difficulty concentrating. Children with sleep apnea may complain of being tired during the day and, at the same time, exhibit hyperactive behavior or act impulsively. “Herein lays the confusion
of separating sleep apnea from ADHD because many of the classic symptoms of ADHD are often exhibited in children with OSA.” says. Dr. Kravitz
“The good news is that sleep apnea is treatable.” Dr. Kravitz mentions. Enlarged tonsils and adenoids are the most common causes of sleep apnea in children. An Ear, Nose and Throat specialist can determine if your child’s tonsils and adenoids are enlarged and possibly blocking the airway at night.
Join dental sleep medicine experts at a Sleep Group Solutions lecture to learn more about sleep apnea in children and adults, and how to address their specific needs. Upcoming lecture opportunities include; San Diego, NYC and Denver. Learn more here.