Otolaryngologists and pulmonologists have warned that untreated snoring in childhood can lead to lifelong health challenges that include cardiovascular complications, growth impairment behavioural problems, poor academic performance, and hyperactivity.
According to them, paediatric obstructive sleep apnea, which occurs due to deep snoring, is a situation in which a child’s breathing is partially or completely blocked during sleep, and can happen several times a night, repeatedly interrupting sleep.
They further explained that the condition occurs when the upper airway narrows or is blocked during sleep.
A health website, Cleveland, described snoring as a common condition that disrupts sleep, and happens when air cannot flow easily through the nose or mouth.
It noted that chronic snoring can also increase the risk of certain health conditions like stroke and heart attack.
Speaking exclusively with PUNCH Healthwise, the physicians explained that snoring at any age is an indication of narrowing or obstruction of the airway, stressing that it should be investigated and treated immediately to prevent long-term issues.
The experts, however, stressed that not all snoring is dangerous, adding that some people simply have more sensitive airways.
According to them, there is a difference between paediatric obstructive sleep apnea and adult sleep apnea, explaining that the cause in adults is often obesity, while in children, it could be due to larger than usual adenoids and tonsils.
PUNCH Healthwise reports that adenoids are two small pads of tissue found in the back of the nose, and tonsils are two oval-shaped pads in the back of the mouth.
The Head of the Department of Ear, Nose, and Throat, Federal Medical Centre, Abuja, Dr Enema Amodu stressed that all cases of snoring in children should be thoroughly reviewed by an ENT doctor and addressed accordingly to prevent complications that can affect a children’s growth, cognitive development and behaviour.
The expert, who is the General Secretary of ENT Surgeons of Nigeria, noted that lifestyle modification may be of help, especially after a thorough review, and treatment by a specialist.
He stressed the importance of vigilance among parents or caregivers as a necessary factor for early identification, and prompt intervention, which could be surgical or otherwise.
ENT surgeon said, “Snoring at any age is an indication of the narrowing or obstruction of the airway. It is an abnormality, and the cause should be investigated and treated. Such patients should see an ENT surgeon promptly.
“Babies do snore, and like all cases of snoring, should be thoroughly reviewed by an ENT doctor and addressed. If the cause of the snoring in a child is not treated, it may continue into adulthood.
“There are several health implications for children snoring. There is what we call progressive snoring, which means progressive airflow obstruction that culminates into oxygen deprivation, especially to the brain, with its antecedent effects.”
On how to correct it, the physician added, “Lifestyle modification may be of help especially in the adult after a thorough review, and treatment by the specialist, the ENT surgeon.
“Surgery can correct some causes of snoring irrespective of age. However, there are other treatment modalities.”
Corroborating him, a pulmonologist at the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital, Dr Tope Oni noted that children who snore are more likely to have sleep-related breathing disorders as adults, including obstructive sleep apnea and daytime sleepiness.
While stating that untreated snoring in children has been linked to behavioural problems and difficulties, the physician stressed that if left untreated, these issues can persist into adulthood and affect the quality of life.
Oni advised those who snore to take it seriously and consult with experts in such specialty, noting that it could be an indication of an underlying medical condition.
“Snoring is not just a nuisance but can be a sign of a serious health problem. If you snore regularly, or if your snoring is severe, you may be at risk for obstructive sleep apnea, a condition in which your breathing is repeatedly interrupted during sleep. This can lead to daytime sleepiness, poor concentration, and an increased risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.
“If you are concerned about your snoring, you should see a doctor who will find out if there is an underlying cause.
“People who snore should get screened for underlying health issues, as well as conditions that may make them more likely to snore, such as obesity, allergies, and alcohol use,” he added.
The physician, however, said lifestyle changes, such as weight loss can also help to reduce snoring in children.
He stressed that better sleep quality can have a positive impact on overall health and quality of life.
The pulmonologist said, “Snoring is not only disruptive to others, but can also have some negative health implications for the snorer. One of the most significant implications is poor sleep quality. When someone snores, they are likely to wake themselves up frequently, leading to fragmented sleep and poor sleep quality. This can lead to negative health effects, including daytime sleepiness, fatigue, cognitive impairment, and even mood disorders like depression.
“Chronic snoring has been linked to an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease, including hypertension and stroke. That is why it is important for anyone experiencing it to visit the hospital for examination.”
The World Health Organisation described obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome as a clinical disorder marked by frequent pauses in breathing during sleep usually accompanied by loud snoring.
According to WHO, these pauses cut off the oxygen supply to the body for a few seconds and halt the removal of carbon dioxide. As a result of this, the brain briefly wakes the person up, the airways re-open, and breathing resumes.
It further noted that these pauses can occur many times during the night and make proper sleep impossible, leading to excessive daytime sleepiness, difficulty in concentrating, or headaches.
