According to a Finnish study as part of the Physical Activity and Nutrition in Children (PANIC) published in the European Journal of Paediatrics involving 512 Finnish children of age 6 to 8 had their lifestyles and health examined with an evaluation of their craniofacial morphology and dental occlusion show that 10% of children have sleep-disordered breathing, the risk is higher among children with enlarged tonsils, crossbite and convex facial profile, and excess body fat is not associated with sleep-disordered breathing in this age group unlike in adults. Therefore, the results indicate that some children who are at risk for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) as adults can be identified in childhood, and provided with treatment options such as removing both adenoids and tonsils, orthodontic treatment to control the development of the jaws and to prevent the development of craniofacial traits predisposing one to sleep apnea, or shaping the dental arch and occlusion.
According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, sleep disorders have reached an epidemic proportion, and identifying sleep-disordered breathing at an early age is important as it allows for early intervention to prevent the progression of the disease, and the diagnosis and treatment are best prescribed with dentists, pediatricians, ear nose and throat, and parents involved.
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of sleep apnea such as snoring, daytime sleepiness, irritability, and low energy, it is important to consult a doctor to confirm the diagnosis early and the underlying issue of the cause of sleep apnea. Depending on your financial situation and sleep apnea condition, the doctor will work through with you the type of sleep apnea test in the comfort of your home or an in-lab sleep test to determine the precise nature of your condition to avoid any long-term issues. Besides most insurance companies now pay for sleep testing and CPAP OSA treatment, early intervention with a sleep apnea device can stop snoring or one can a sleep apnea CPAP trial from the equipment supplier or distributor that distributes a range of sleep apnea machines and CPAP supplies for a better quality of sleep and healthier overall well-being.
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