Sleep Disorders: OSA (Obstructive Sleep Apnoea)

Although Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) is a medical condition and not something we treat at The Sleep Nanny®, it can still be helpful to be able to spot the signs which can hinder your progress with sleep training. Signs to look out for are: Audible Mouth Breathing This is different to open mouth breathing – sometimes known as ‘catching flies!’ If the breath goes in and out through the mouth, which can happen both during the day and at night, that’s what you’re looking for. Snoring A narrowing of the airways, such as when you have a cold, can cause you to snore, which can be a sign of OSN. Sweating This is not to be used as a standalone symptom of OSA. It can be an accompanying sign. Some children are just warm naturally, but excessive sweating should be noted. Tiredness If your child seems very tired with no obvious reason and everything is in check with their sleep times etc, it could be that they’re having a disturbed sleep. Can we help a child with OSA? Yes, we can certainly work on the behavioural aspects of the sleep issues. But we’ll only get so far if there are underlying issues. My recommendation would be to book an appointment with an ENT (Ear, Nose & Throat) specialist to investigate these symptoms. Enlarged tonsils or adenoids are usually present with OSA. Once you have a diagnosis, it will be easier to address any behavioural sleep issues. For our tips and cheat sheets, subscribe for free to >> Sleep Nanny Insiders Become a Sleep Nanny Insider – it’s Free! Weekly inspiration, support and goodies Submit