Obstructive Sleep Apneas
Paediatric obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is a condition where a child's breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, due to narrowing or blockage of the airway. It is more common than many parents realise, and can affect children of any age. Dr Harvey Kok provides specialist diagnosis and management of paediatric OSA, drawing on his dedicated training in sleep medicine.
What causes OSA in children?
In children, OSA is most commonly caused by enlarged tonsils and adenoids, which narrow the airway during sleep. Other contributing factors can include allergies and nasal congestion, obesity, and certain craniofacial or neuromuscular conditions.
Signs to look out for
Loud or frequent snoring
Pauses in breathing, gasping, or choking sounds during sleep
Restless sleep or unusual sleeping positions
Mouth breathing during the day or night
Difficulty waking, or excessive daytime sleepiness
Behavioural changes, irritability, or difficulty concentrating at school
Bedwetting beyond the age it would usually be expected to resolve
Diagnosis
A detailed history and examination are the starting point, often followed by a sleep study (polysomnography) to confirm the diagnosis and assess its severity. This test measures breathing patterns, oxygen levels and sleep quality overnight, and provides important information to guide treatment.
Treatment options
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity, and may include:
Referral for removal of the tonsils and adenoids, where these are the primary cause
Management of allergies or nasal congestion contributing to airway narrowing
Weight management support, where relevant
Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, in select cases
Ongoing monitoring and follow-up sleep studies to assess treatment response
Why treatment matters
Left untreated, OSA can affect a child's growth, behaviour, learning, and cardiovascular health over time. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can lead to significant improvements in sleep quality and daytime functioning.
Next steps - Schedule a consultation
If your child snores regularly or shows other signs of disrupted sleep, contact Little Lungs to arrange an assessment, or ask your GP about a referral.
Paediatric Respiratory & Sleep Services across Sydney & Newcastle
Whether your child has been recently diagnosed with a respiratory condition, you have concerns about their sleep, or you are simply looking for a specialist who will take the time to listen, Little Lungs is here for you. We are committed to helping children across Sydney breathe well, sleep well, and thrive.