“A third of US adults report that they usually get less than the recommended amount of sleep,” says the CDC, “while obstructive sleep apnea syndrome affects 1% to 10% of children,” according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. Not getting the sleep you need can be linked to many diseases, which is why it’s important to contact your San Antonio, TX, dentist, Dr. Christian Pham.
Sleep Apnea
Pediatric sleep apnea is a sleep-related breathing disorder that affects a person’s respiratory airflow. The airflow is interrupted when soft tissue, like the tongue, at the back of your throat collapses while you’re asleep causing the windpipe to be partially closed off. The soft tissue vibrates which results in you snoring.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea is when the upper airway is blocked. There is a significant airflow disruption and complete airflow blockage may result as well.
Someone suffering from sleep apnea may wake up several times a night, which is called micro-arousals that prevents deep and restful sleep.
Lack of Sleep
According to the National Sleep Foundation’s 2005 Sleep in America poll, approximately 168 million people reported feeling drowsy while driving. Early diagnosis and treatment of children’s sleep apnea can prevent complications that impact children’s growth, cognitive development, and behavior.
Not getting enough sleep isn’t just important for your health, but for the well-fare of others. If you’re not getting enough sleep and decide to drive your children to school, that may result in you falling asleep at the wheel. This may lead to a serious accident where serious injury and trauma are sustained.
There are many diseases that are linked to a lack of sleep, so make sure you ask your San Antonio doctor about how he can help you cope with or treat certain illnesses to improve the quality of your sleep.
Here are a few examples of conditions that affect sleep:
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Obesity
- Depression
Need to speak with a doctor about children’s sleep apnea?
If you have any questions or concerns regarding your child’s health, then it’s a good idea to contact your San Antonio, TX, dentist today!