Whether you have sleep apnea or not, if you smoke, you could be putting your child at risk for this condition. In a recent study in the International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology found that though obstructive sleep apnea only occurs in about 4 percent of children, that number increases dramatically when they are exposed to secondhand smoke.
Sleep Apnea and Children
Although sleep apnea in children is quite rare, there are several things that can increase their risk of developing it, including obesity, muscle weakness, Down syndrome, craniofacial syndrome, enlarged tonsils, a small jaw, and exposure to secondhand smoke.
Though your child’s doctor must diagnose sleep apnea, there are a few key indicators that you should be on the lookout for on your own, such as snoring or pauses in their breathing during sleep. If you notice either of these symptoms, reach out to their pediatrician to discuss sleep testing and treatment with airway management.
The Dangers of Untreated Sleep Apnea
Unfortunately, ignoring sleep apnea will not make it go away. If you are noticing signs of the condition in your child, it is important that you treat it. Failure to do so could not only cause them to suffer many daytime symptoms such as fatigue, cognitive failure, depression, and mood disorders, but it can also have long-term effects such as high blood pressure, impaired growth, and an increased risk of diabetes and heart disease.
Sleep Solutions from Your Dentist
If you smoke and you or your child suffer from sleep apnea, quitting may be one of the best things you’ll ever do for your health. Smoking can cause myriad medical and oral health problems in adults and children alike.
The good news is that treating sleep apnea no longer means you must use an awkward CPAP machine. Today’s sleep appliances are safe, effective, and comfortable, making them much easier to use and stick with than CPAP therapy. Although some patients may still benefit from combining CPAP with a sleep appliance, your dentist can discuss if this will benefit you at your consultation.
Don’t let yourself or your child struggle to get a good night’s sleep. Speak to your dentist today about treating sleep apnea and getting the comfortable rest you deserve.
About Dr. Teasdale
For over 40 years, Dr. Russell Teasdale has been helping patients improve their quality of life through excellent oral health and sleep solutions such as airway management. If you or someone you love suffers from sleep apnea due to secondhand smoke or any other causes, airway management offers a variety of solutions to help. To learn more about your treatment options, please schedule a consultation with Evolution Dental today by visiting our website or calling us at 503-974-3829.