Snoring In Children May Be Linked To Learning And Behavioural Problems

Snoring is common amongst many children, however new research has shown that it may be associated with structural changes in the brain causing behavioural and learning problems.

A study by University of Maryland School of Medicine analysed brain MRI scans in children (ages 9-10) who regularly snore. They found that there were structural changes in the frontal lobes of their brain – the region associated with cognitive control. Specifically, children who snored three or more times per week were more likely to have thinner grey matter in their frontal lobe and show a lack of focus, hyperactivity and learning difficulties at school.

Snoring is a common sign of sleep disordered breathing, especially obstructive sleep apnoea. This condition is characterized by the narrowing of the airways which causes snoring, or long breathing pauses which lead to a reduction in oxygen supply to the brain. This can impair cognitive control, and has long term cardiovascular effects due to the stress placed on the heart.

This study highlights the need for children to be assessed for snoring and sleep disordered breathing, given the impact these can have on learning, behaviour and health.

The CPAP Clinic has a network of 40 clinics nationwide, and works in partnership with Centurion Healthcare, a Respiratory & Sleep Specialist clinic group to provide comprehensive sleep care including:

1. Respiratory & Sleep Specialist consultation – face-to-face and telehealth available
2. Sleep studies – in-lab, home and contactless sleep studies available.

Bulk billing available for specialist telehealth consultations as well as sleep studies. Medicare criteria apply. Call 1300 76 29 39 or email info@thecpapclinic.com.au for more information.