Sleep apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea is defined as a partial or complete blockage in breathing during sleep. Children often are identified because they have obvious symptoms such a loud snoring and pauses in breathing while sleeping.

Sleep apnea in children can be difficult to recognize and diagnose, and may manifest as behavioral problems or bedwetting. Symptoms can include: continuous loud snoring, mouth breathing, daytime behavioral problems, bedwetting frequent naps and morning headaches.

Once the physician has made the diagnosis, she will discuss treatment options with you. In most children, the standard treatment is to remove the tonsils and adenoids.