Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is characterized by the recurrence of interrupted breathing during sleep and results in a chronic lack of deep, restful sleep. When adults have this disorder, they are likely to experience daytime sleepiness, but when it occurs in children, they are more likely to have behavioral problems.

Symptoms in Children

• Loud snoring
• Pauses in breathing
• Mouth breathing
• Bedwetting
• Hyperactivity or inattention

Treatment may involve removing enlarged tonsils or adenoids, or using a CPAP machine in severe cases.