Researchers from the University of Gothenburg have found that children who frequently snore are at an increased risk of developing learning difficulties or experiencing delayed growth.
According to the research: "When snoring becomes persistent and the child experiences sleep apnea, sleep quality is affected. This, in turn, can lead to problems with daytime tiredness, concentration and learning difficulties, bedwetting and delayed growth."
Published in The Journal of Laryngology and Otology, the study, from Sahlgrenska Academy, looked at the occurrence of snoring and sleep apnea in 1300 children aged from 0 – 11, and found that 5% snored several times a week with only one third seeking help for their problem.
“Children with persistent snoring often have a reduced quality of life. In particular, this applies to children who have sleep apnea," explained Gunnhildur Gudnadottir, Researcher at Sahlgrenska Academy.
"The study shows that awareness is low regarding the negative effects of breathing disturbances during sleep on children's health and that most parents are not aware that this is something that should be investigated. An obvious result of the study is that we must consider how parents are given information about the condition and where they can seek help."
According to the study, the most common reason children snore is due to enlarged tonsils or adenoids, and in most cases can be cured or reduced with surgery.
Researchers involved in the study advise parents of children who frequently snore to ask their doctor for a medical evaluation.
