2025 Guide: Recognizing Sleep Apnea Symptoms in Adults, Children & Toddlers

Sleep apnea is a widespread and potentially dangerous sleep disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. If left untreated, it can increase the risk of serious health issues such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and heart attack.

This condition affects individuals of all ages, including infants, children, and adults, with symptoms varying depending on age group.

Below is a comprehensive overview of sleep apnea symptoms and warning signs to watch for.

Sleep Apnea Symptoms in Adults

If you experience several of the following symptoms, you might be suffering from one of the two main types of sleep apnea. Some signs may be more noticeable to your bed partner.

• Loud, persistent snoring
• Episodes of paused breathing during sleep
• Sudden awakenings with shortness of breath
• Gasping or choking sounds at night
• Frequent nighttime bathroom visits
• Waking up with dry mouth or sore throat
• Morning headaches
• Difficulty falling or staying asleep (insomnia)
• Excessive daytime sleepiness (hypersomnia)
• Problems with attention, concentration, or memory
• Irritability or mood swings
• Reduced libido or sexual dysfunction

Risk factors for obstructive sleep apnea, caused by airway blockage, include:

• Overweight or obesity
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Tobacco smoking

Sleep Apnea Symptoms in Children

Between 7% and 11% of children experience nighttime breathing disorders such as sleep apnea or snoring. Obstructive sleep apnea affects approximately 1% to 6% of children and adolescents, accounting for about 95% of diagnosed pediatric sleep apnea cases.

Untreated sleep apnea in children can lead to behavioral and learning difficulties similar to ADHD symptoms:

• Learning challenges
• Short attention span
• Poor academic performance

Watch for these signs in your child:

• Snoring
• Mouth breathing during sleep and wakefulness
• Breathing pauses during sleep
• Bedwetting
• Daytime sleepiness

Sleep Apnea Symptoms in Toddlers

For toddlers, be alert to these sleep apnea warning signs during sleep:

• Snoring and labored breathing
• Breathing pauses
• Restlessness
• Coughing or choking episodes
• Excessive sweating

Signs during waking hours include:

• Irritability and frequent crankiness
• Falling asleep at inappropriate times
• Tonsil or adenoid-related health issues
• Slower growth in height and weight compared to peers

When to Consult a Doctor

If you or your child exhibit symptoms of sleep apnea, consult a healthcare professional promptly. Doctors may recommend a sleep specialist and perform a polysomnography (sleep study) to diagnose the condition. This test monitors brain activity, eye movement, breathing patterns, and blood oxygen levels during sleep, as well as snoring and breathing interruptions.

For children, a pediatrician can provide diagnosis and treatment options, possibly referring to an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist to evaluate if tonsil or adenoid removal is necessary.

In toddlers, pediatricians assess factors like weight and allergies and may refer to pulmonologists or ENT specialists for further evaluation and treatment recommendations.

Key Takeaway

Sleep apnea is a common condition that affects all age groups and can have significant health consequences if untreated. Early recognition and medical consultation are crucial for effective management and improved quality of life.

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