How Does Sleep Apnea Differ in Children Compared to Adults?

Understanding the Differences in Sleep Apnea Across Age Groups

Sleep apnea doesn’t just affect adults—it can also disrupt the lives of children. At Palmetto Sleep, we specialize in treating sleep apnea across all age groups, helping patients in McDonough, Palmetto, Fayetteville, Zebulon, and surrounding Georgia communities breathe and sleep better.

Key Differences Between Sleep Apnea in Children and Adults

Although sleep apnea in children and adults shares some overlapping symptoms, the causes, signs, diagnosis, treatment approaches, and long-term outlooks differ significantly. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Causes and Risk Factors

Children

• Enlarged tonsils and adenoids are the leading causes.
• Genetic predisposition and, in fewer cases, childhood obesity can contribute.
• Most commonly affects children aged 3–6, when tonsillar tissues are proportionally largest.

Adults

• Obesity, age, and gender (men are more frequently affected).
• Lifestyle factors such as smoking and alcohol consumption.
• Often diagnosed as Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) or Central Sleep Apnea (CSA).

2. Symptoms

Children

• Snoring or noisy breathing during sleep
• Restless sleep or unusual sleeping positions
• Frequent bedwetting
• Daytime fatigue and attention difficulties
• Behavioral problems that may mimic ADHD
• Poor academic performance

Learn more about pediatric sleep health through our Healthy Start program.

Adults

• Loud, chronic snoring
• Episodes of stopped breathing
• Morning headaches or dry mouth
• Daytime drowsiness
• Decreased libido and mood swings
• Impaired memory or concentration

Explore the psychological impacts of sleep apnea and how they may affect your overall well-being.

3. Diagnosis

Children

• A thorough clinical evaluation of behavior and sleep patterns
• Sleep study (polysomnography) to track breathing, oxygen levels, and sleep stages
• Imaging studies (X-rays, endoscopy) may help identify anatomical obstructions

Adults

• Sleep studies in clinical or home settings
• Evaluation of coexisting conditions such as cardiovascular disease or metabolic syndrome

4. Treatment Options

Children

• Surgical removal of enlarged tonsils and adenoids
• Weight management strategies if obesity is a factor
• Positive airway pressure therapy when surgery isn’t effective
• Behavior-focused therapies to improve sleep hygiene

Adults

• Lifestyle changes including weight loss, avoiding alcohol, and changing sleep positions
• CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machines
• Oral appliance therapy as a non-invasive alternative to CPAP
• Surgical interventions when necessary

Discover how we offer alternatives to CPAP for those seeking more comfortable solutions.

5. Long-Term Outlook

Children

• Early treatment often resolves the condition entirely
• Improvements in behavior, academic performance, and quality of life
• Ongoing monitoring may be necessary to prevent recurrence

Adults

• Chronic condition requiring continuous management
• Increased risk of serious health issues like stroke, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease
• Long-term treatment adherence is essential for maintaining wellness

Frequently Asked Questions

What age is sleep apnea most common in children?

Sleep apnea is most common in children between the ages of 3 and 6, primarily due to the relatively larger size of the tonsils and adenoids during these developmental years.

Can untreated sleep apnea in children lead to behavioral problems?

Yes, untreated sleep apnea in children is linked to behavioral issues such as hyperactivity, mood swings, and attention difficulties. It may also contribute to academic struggles that mimic ADHD symptoms.

How is sleep apnea diagnosed in children versus adults?

Both children and adults typically undergo a sleep study (polysomnography). However, in children, diagnosis may also involve physical exams and imaging tests to assess tonsil and adenoid size.

Are CPAP machines used for children with sleep apnea?

In some cases, yes. If surgical options such as tonsil or adenoid removal are not effective or viable, positive airway pressure therapies like CPAP may be recommended for children.

Does sleep apnea go away as a child grows?

Sometimes. If the condition is caused by enlarged tonsils or adenoids and they shrink with age, the symptoms may improve. However, many children benefit significantly from early diagnosis and treatment through interventions like surgery or oral appliances.

Schedule a Consultation Today

At Palmetto Sleep, our experienced team—led by Dr. Jordan Brunson, DDS—is dedicated to diagnosing and treating sleep apnea in both children and adults. With locations in Fayetteville, McDonough, Palmetto, and Zebulon, we provide convenient, expert care throughout Georgia.

To learn more about your options or schedule a sleep study, call us at (770) 230-0222 or contact us online. Our compassionate team—including Sleep Coordinator Jessica Meza and Sleep Assistant Heather—is here to support your journey toward healthier sleep.