Sleeping, Airway, & Breathing
Breathing is a critical part of life. While children may breathe properly during the day, if they have Sleep Disordered Breathing (SDB), it can take a significant toll on their overall health.
According to the Journal of the American Osteopathic Association, approximately 15% of children have SDB. Furthermore, 9 out of every 10 cases are not diagnosed. Many of the
symptoms of SDB are physical, emotional, and behavioral, which are commonly seen as a
phase or misdiagnosed.
Enlarged tonsils and adenoids are a common physical contributing factor to a narrow airway. Children who are overweight are at an increased risk of SDB. Abnormalities in the lower jaw or tongue, as well as neuromuscular disorders are also associated with SDB. However, SDB can occur for a variety of other reasons.
Symptoms of Sleep Disordered Breathing in Children:
- Snoring
- Irritability
- Bedwetting
- Learning difficulties
- Slow growth
- Cardiovascular difficulties
- Obesity
How Occupational Therapy Can Help
Occupational therapists understand the physiology of sleep and can help parents address their child’s sleeping problems. We will go over the entire process, from your child getting to sleep to them staying asleep. We may suggest various changes in their routines and habits on a trial basis to see what works best for your child. Each child is unique, so the appropriate treatment will vary from patient to patient.
At Function First, we understand the importance of proper breathing while sleeping. We are trained to identify the symptoms and create a treatment plan to help your child achieve optimal nighttime breathing.
