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Childhood Obesity and Sleep Disturbances

Jamie E Neal1

  • 1Sleep Disorders Center Nurse Practitioner, Children's Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, MO.

NASN School Nurse (Print)
|October 31, 2015
PubMed

Insights

Childhood obesity is associated with sleep problems like obstructive sleep apnea and excessive daytime sleepiness. Early identification by school nurses can help manage these related health issues in children.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Sleep Medicine
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Childhood obesity is a growing public health concern.
  • Obesity is linked to various comorbidities, including sleep disturbances.
  • Sleep issues like obstructive sleep apnea and excessive daytime sleepiness are prevalent in obese children.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To discuss the association between childhood obesity and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
  • To explore the link between obesity and excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS).
  • To outline signs, symptoms, risk factors, and treatment for OSA and EDS in obese children.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review focusing on studies examining obesity, OSA, and EDS in children.
  • Synthesis of current evidence on the pathophysiology and clinical presentation.
  • Discussion of the role of school nurses in identification and intervention.

Main Results:

  • Obesity is a significant risk factor for developing obstructive sleep apnea.
  • Children with obesity often experience excessive daytime sleepiness, impacting cognitive and behavioral function.
  • Early recognition of OSA and EDS symptoms in obese children is crucial for timely management.

Conclusions:

  • There is a strong association between childhood obesity and sleep disorders like OSA and EDS.
  • School nurses play a vital role in identifying children affected by these conditions.
  • Addressing sleep disturbances in obese children is essential for improving overall health and well-being.

Keywords:
childhood obesitydaytime sleepinessobstructive sleep apneasleep disordered breathing

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