Sep 20th 2021
What You Should Know About CPAP for Kids
If your child was recently diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), it can feel overwhelming and cause many questions. This article will provide you with an understanding of the basics of CPAP for kids. You should consult your child’s physician with all your specific questions.
Warning Signs Your Child May Need to Be Tested for Sleep Apnea
If your child hasn’t seen a doctor yet, but you are concerned they may have sleep apnea, here are some common symptoms to look for with your child.
- Bedwetting
- Breathing pauses (a few seconds to 1 minute long)
- Daytime tiredness
- Gasping or snorting during sleep
- Hyperactivity during the day
- Learning problems
- Morning headaches
- Mouth breathing
- Needing a nap during the day (is past the age of napping)
- Restlessness or irritability
- Sleepwalking or night terrors
- Snoring
If your child’s physician agrees that they might have sleep apnea, then your child will participate in a sleep study for an official diagnosis.
Please note that sleep apnea or OSA symptoms are like other health-related conditions in children. If you have any concerns about your child’s health, make an appointment with your child’s physician for an official medical diagnosis.
What is Pediatric CPAP Treatment?
Pediatric Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is similar to the type of CPAP treatment an adult would receive. The difference is the CPAP machine will blow pressurized air more gently through your child’s nose to maintain an open airway in their throat. Your child’s physician will regularly monitor and test your child to adjust the treatment as needed as your child grows.
For the CPAP for kids’ treatment, a CPAP mask will need to be worn when your child sleeps. The mask guarantees the right amount of pressure is being given for their treatment. There are special pediatric CPAP masks with fun designs available to help your child feel more comfortable wearing the mask.
Benefits of CPAP for Kids
The most significant benefit of CPAP for kids’ treatment is the machine that keeps your child’s airways open as they sleep. There are additional benefits as your child continues with their treatment.
- Increases the likelihood of a full night’s sleep
- Improves sleep
- Prevents difficulty breathing as they sleep
- Reduces restlessness and headaches throughout the day
- Stops snoring
It’s important to note that CPAP therapy is a treatment option that helps to reduce the negative effects of sleep apnea, but CPAP is not a way to heal OSA.
How to Prepare Your Child for CPAP Treatment
Depending on your child’s age, it can be difficult for them to adjust to this new nighttime routine. Here are some tips to help prepare your child and ease them into their CPAP treatment.
#1 Getting Used to the Noises
Before using the CPAP machine, turn it on so your child can get used to the noises it makes as it runs.
#2 Becoming Comfortable with the CPAP Mask
Let your child wear their CPAP mask for 10-15 minutes before going to bed, maybe as you read them a story, so they can get comfortable with wearing the mask.
#3 Placing the CPAP Mask After Their Asleep
If your child is having difficulty wearing the mask, wait until they fall asleep, then place the mask on their face. Then, to help them become more comfortable with the mask, let them read or watch TV during the day while wearing the mask.
#4 Show Others Wear Masks
If your child is afraid of the mask, show them someone they know who wears a mask (firefighters, astronauts, doctors).
#5 Teach Them Why CPAP is Important
Try giving your child an age-appropriate answer of why the CPAP machine and mask will help them sleep better.
“This machine helps you to sleep better.”
“It will help you have more energy and fun throughout the day.”
“You might not need to take naps during the day because you’ll get enough rest at night.”
CPAP Equipment from a Trusted Supplier
GoCPAP.com is a reliable, trustworthy CPAP supplier for high-quality machines, masks, and equipment. Our team can help you find what your child needs to have a successful night’s sleep.
