Sleep problems can affect every aspect of your child's life. If your child suffers from sleep problems, they may need to take frequent naps. They may even suffer from problems at school. Unfortunately, it's not always easy to identify the cause of pediatric sleep disturbances. Some sleep disturbances are caused by growth spurts, hormonal changes, or even an uncomfortable mattress. But some pediatric sleep disturbances can be caused by more serious medical conditions. Sleep apnea is one of those medical conditions. If your child suffers from sleep disturbances, read the information provided below. If your child experiences any of the signs described here, schedule an appointment with their dentist right away. Your child may have sleep apnea. 

They Walk in Their Sleep

It's not uncommon for children to walk in their sleep from time to time. Sleepwalking occurs when children experience confusional arousal during sleep. Confusional arousal causes children to partially awaken but not enough to be fully aware of their surroundings. If your child suffers from sleep apnea, breathing disruption may cause them to enter a semi-awakened state. If your child sleepwalks several times a week, it's time to talk to their dentist about sleep apnea. 

They Grind Their Teeth

If your child grinds their teeth during the day, it might be a bad habit that you need to get help for. But if your child grinds their teeth while they're asleep, it could be a sign that they're suffering from sleep apnea. Sleep apnea causes the soft tissue at the back of the throat to block the airways. When that happens, breathing stops for a short period of time. Grinding the teeth or clenching the jaw can help to reopen breathing passages. If your child grinds their teeth or clenches their jaw while they're asleep, seek treatment from your child's dentist right away. 

They Wet the Bed

Bed wetting can be another sign that your child suffers from sleep apnea. Under normal conditions, your child will fully awaken when they need to use the toilet during the night. But, with sleep apnea, your child may abruptly awaken due to breathing problems. Unfortunately, they might not awaken enough to know that they don't need to empty their bladder. Not only that, but sleep apnea can cause the bladder to relax during breathing episodes. When that happens, your child may wet the bed. If your child's doctor can't find any other cause for the bed wetting, it's time to have them tested for sleep apnea.