Waist Size and Body Mass Index Are Important Risk Factors for Sleep Disordered Breathing in Children
In the past, many doctors have believed that pediatric snoring is most often caused by an infection, a nasal obstruction, or, frequently, the size of the child’s tonsils. A study published last week, tell us that tonsil size may not be as big of a contributor to problematic breathing during sleep as previously thought.
Instead, Sleep, the scientific and medical journal that published the story, found that waist circumference and body mass index (BMI) are more significant risk factors for snoring and other sleep disordered breathing (SDB) issues in children, including sleep apnea.
The fact that waist circumference was found to be significant is important in another way. Earlier studies suggest that a child’s waist measurement is useful in assessing a child’s risk for obesity, especially when their weight or BMI measurement appear to be normal for their age. Snoring, sleep apnea, and obesity all have the potential increase a child’s risk of developing heart problems.
What if my child snores?
According to the Dallas Center for Sleep Disorders, 10 percent or more of children snore on most nights, and children who are three years or older tend to snore during the deeper stages of sleep. This is normal.
You may have cause for concern, though, if your child is otherwise healthy but snores loudly each night, possibly with pauses in breathing and gasps for air. Snorign can be a sign of a respiratory infection, a stuffy nose or allergy, or a symptom of underlying sleep apnea, which increases a child’s risk for having heart problems, behavioral issues, and impaired growth and development.
If your child does snore, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that your child be screened for snoring and that a diagnosis be made to determine if they are experiencing normal primary snoring or obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
According to principal investigator Edward O. Bixler, PhD, of Penn State University College of Medicine in Hershey, Penn., it is often assumed that the primary mechanism of SDB in children is the presence of large tonsils or adenoids. But,
“because SDB in children is not just the outcome of anatomical abnormalities, treatment strategies should consider alternative options, such as weight loss and correction of nasal problems.”
For more information, visit:
Children’s Hospital of Boston, Center for Pediatric Sleep Disorders
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