Sleep Apnoea and Child | Genuine Smile

Children’s sleep & breathing health

Many parents assume sleep apnoea only affects adults, but it can also affect a significant number of children. Sleep apnoea happens when a child’s airway partially or completely collapses during sleep, temporarily stopping their breathing. This can lead to restless nights, poor sleep quality, and even difficulties with attention, learning, or growth.

At Genuine Smiles, we carefully assess each child and provide personalised guidance to manage and treat sleep-related breathing issues safely and effectively. Early detection can make a real difference in your child’s health, development, and quality of life.

Symptoms of sleep apnoea in children

Night-time symptoms of sleep apnoea

Snoring
Restless sleep
Struggling to breathe
Pauses in breathing
Gasping or choking sounds
Bed wetting
Sweating during sleep
Nightmares
Waking up confused, tired or with a headache
Waking up to go to the toilet

Day-time symptoms of sleep apnoea

Failure to thrive
Hyperactivity
Diagnosed as suffering from ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)
Poor concentration
Learning difficulties
Sleepiness
Chronic blocked nose, sniffling – breathing regularly through the mouth

How is sleep apnoea diagnosed?

The best way to definitively diagnose the problem and its severity is with a Sleep Study.

My child has been diagnosed with sleep apnoea. What do I do?

Obtain a referral to an appropriate child sleep physician to confirm the diagnosis. Your child might be suffering from other sleep disorders unrelated to sleep apnoea (e.g. parasomnia, epilepsy, asthma, cystic fibrosis);
If the adenoids or tonsils are enlarged they may need to be removed;
Food intolerances may be a contributing factor. A food elimination diet may be prescribed;
Remove any possible air-born allergens which may be affecting your child. Nasal congestion from such irritants exacerbates sleep apnoea in your child;

Braces may be needed to help guide the teeth and jaws into the optimum anatomical position that will establish competent nose breathing;
Referral to an orofacial myologist to help with muscular exercises that aid in correct breathing techniques;
If your child is obese, exercise and a weight management program will be indicated;
CPAP machine may be prescribed.

Sleep Apnoea in Children