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Updated: Aug 26, 2026

Drug-Induced Sleep Endoscopy (DISE) with Target Controlled Infusion (TCI) and Bispectral Analysis in Obstructive Sleep Apnea
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Snoring and obstructive sleep apnoea in children: why should we treat?

David Gozal1, Louise M O'Brien

  • 1Kosair Children's Hospital Research Institute, Department of Pediatrics, University of Louisville School of Medicine, USA. david.gozal@louisville.edu

Paediatric Respiratory Reviews
|February 26, 2004
PubMed

Insights

Frequent snoring in children may signal obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a condition linked to serious cardiovascular and neurobehavioral issues. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent lasting health consequences.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Sleep Medicine
  • Cardiovascular Health in Children
  • Neurobehavioral Development

Background:

  • Frequent and loud snoring affects about 10% of children aged 2-8.
  • Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is diagnosed in approximately 10% of children who snore.
  • The pathophysiology of pediatric OSA is not fully understood, with adenotonsillar hypertrophy being a key factor, but other contributors are likely involved.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the significant, often underestimated, morbidities associated with pediatric snoring and OSA.
  • To emphasize the cardiovascular and neurobehavioral consequences of untreated OSA in children.
  • To underscore the importance of timely diagnosis and intervention for OSA in children.

Main Methods:

  • Review of epidemiological data and pre-post treatment analyses.
  • Identification of cardiovascular and neurobehavioral morbidities linked to snoring and OSA.
  • Assessment of the long-term implications of delayed diagnosis and treatment.

Main Results:

  • Pediatric OSA is associated with serious health problems including pulmonary hypertension, elevated blood pressure, nocturnal enuresis, and impaired growth.
  • Neurobehavioral issues such as attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder-like symptoms, learning, and cognitive deficits are linked to pediatric OSA.
  • These conditions increase healthcare costs and can lead to irreversible long-term consequences if not addressed promptly.

Conclusions:

  • Pediatric snoring and OSA are not benign conditions and carry substantial risks.
  • Untreated OSA can result in significant and potentially permanent cardiovascular and neurobehavioral damage.
  • Prompt diagnosis and intervention are essential to mitigate severe health outcomes and improve quality of life in affected children.

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