Sleep apnea is a common condition in which a person’s breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. It can have a significant impact on a person’s overall health, including their cognitive function (e.g.,ADHD), cardiovascular health, behavioral challenges, and quality of life. While sleep apnea can affect individuals of all ages, it is particularly prevalent in children, with estimates suggesting that between 1 and 4% of children suffer from the condition.
One potential treatment option for children with sleep apnea is myofunctional therapy. Myofunctional therapy is a type of therapy that focuses on the muscles and functions of the mouth and face. It can help children with sleep apnea by strengthening the muscles that control breathing and promoting better overall oral health.
Here are some of the reasons why children who have sleep apnea should see a myofunctional therapist:
Improved Breathing
Myofunctional therapy can help children with sleep apnea by improving their breathing. During therapy, children are taught exercises that strengthen the muscles in the mouth and throat, which can help keep the airway open during sleep. This can help to reduce the frequency and severity of breathing disruptions and improve the child's overall sleep quality.
Reduced Risk of Complications
Untreated sleep apnea can lead to a range of health complications, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. By addressing the root cause of sleep apnea through myofunctional therapy, children can reduce their risk of developing these and other related health problems.
Improved Oral Health
Myofunctional therapy can also improve children's oral health by correcting oral habits that can contribute to sleep apnea. For example, children who suck their thumb or use a pacifier may be more likely to develop sleep apnea. Myofunctional therapy can help to address these habits, which can reduce the risk of sleep apnea and improve overall oral health.
Non-Invasive Treatment
Myofunctional therapy is a non-invasive treatment option for children with sleep apnea. Unlike other treatment options, such as surgery or continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines, myofunctional therapy does not involve any invasive procedures or devices. This makes it a safe and effective option for children who may be uncomfortable with other treatments.
Myofunctional therapy can be an effective treatment option for children with sleep apnea. By improving breathing, reducing the risk of complications, improving oral health, and offering a non-invasive treatment option, myofunctional therapy can help children with sleep apnea to lead healthier, happier lives. If you suspect that your child may have sleep apnea, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for their specific needs.
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