What Is Sleep Apnea?
Pediatric sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which a child’s breathing repeatedly pauses during sleep due to a narrowed or partially blocked airway. These interruptions prevent restful sleep and may impact a child’s growth, behavior, learning, and overall development. At El Paso Sleep Center, early evaluation helps protect your child’s long-term health.
Pediatric sleep apnea is often linked to physical or developmental factors that interfere with normal airflow, including enlarged tonsils or adenoids, narrow airways, small jaw structure, obesity, or poor muscle tone. The condition affects an estimated 1% to 4% of children, most commonly between the ages of 2 and 8.
Why Early Diagnosis & Treatment Matter
Without treatment, pediatric sleep apnea may lead to hyperactivity, learning difficulties, behavioral changes, poor academic performance, delayed growth, and long-term cardiovascular risks.
Treatment options may include tonsil and adenoid removal, CPAP therapy, weight management, or treatment of related conditions such as allergies or asthma. Our specialists develop personalized care plans to help children achieve healthy, restorative sleep.
