Getting your children to sleep is a feat in itself! If you notice them snoring, it can be cute but also mildly concerning.

Snoring doesn’t happen as often in children as it does in adults, but it isn’t a rarity. One in 10 children are reported to snore from time to time.

Snoring is not inherently dangerous, but if your child’s snoring begins to disrupt his or her nightly sleep or daytime activities, it may be time to get it investigated further to rule out any sleep disorders. Our staff at AFC Urgent Care Powdersville can help ease your concerns about childhood snoring.

What Makes My Child Susceptible to Snoring?

Childhood and adult snoring both come from the same cause. Excess tissue in the throat vibrates as it works against the air moving through the throat passage. In children, this tissue is often associated with larger-than-normal tonsils and adenoids. In addition to this excess tissue, children who are overweight or have allergies or asthma are more susceptible to having a mild snoring problem.

The majority of snoring cases in young children aren’t a cause for concern. However, children can develop sleep apnea just like adults do. Sleep apnea stops or disrupts your child’s breathing patterns and can last anywhere from 10 seconds to two minutes, and this cycle repeats all night long. If your child snores and experiences any of the below symptoms, it is time to be evaluated by a medical professional.

Indications of Sleep Apnea

• Snoring loudly often
• Sleeping with his or her mouth open
• Gasping or choking
  
• Snoring all night long

Are Some Children More at Risk Of Sleep Disorders?

Yes! Children who are overweight and those born prematurely are at a higher risk of developing sleep apnea or suffering from a snoring problem. Snoring also is more common in children with Down syndrome, a cleft lip or palate, or a neuromuscular disorder.

If you are worried about the frequency and pitch of your child’s snoring, create a sleep journal to help track any patterns that you notice. If you can’t attribute the snoring to any high pollen count days or symptomatic asthma days, it would be a good idea to investigate it further to help promote healthier sleep for your child.

Reducing Childhood Snoring

• Encourage side sleeping instead of back sleeping.
  
• Add more physical activity into his or her day.
• Remove tonsils or adenoids.

Make your child’s sleep health a priority! If you are concerned with the frequency of your child’s snoring, come see us at AFC Urgent Care Powdersville.