Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 7, 2025

Drug-Induced Sleep Endoscopy DISE with Target Controlled Infusion TCI and Bispectral Analysis in Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Published on: December 6, 2016
Adenotonsillectomy as a treatment for sleep-disordered breathing in children with ADHD
Alexandra Perez1, Kimberly Hunter
1At the time this article was written, Alexandra Perez was a student in the PA program at the University of Toledo in Toledo, Ohio. She now practices in neurosurgery at Grant Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. Kimberly Hunter practices and is an assistant professor of psychiatry in the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Department at the University of Toledo Medical Center. The authors have disclosed no potential conflicts of interest, financial or otherwise.
Abstract:
Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are common disorders diagnosed in children. Although these diagnoses were previously considered unrelated, research now is showing that some symptoms of ADHD, specifically oppositional behavior, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, can be related to SDB in children and differs from bona fide ADHD. This article explores the connection between the two disorders and the importance of identifying and screening for SDB in children presenting with similar symptoms related to ADHD. The article also examines symptom improvement in patients with ADHD symptoms after an adenotonsillectomy, one of the first-line treatments for children diagnosed with SDB; this procedure may reduce the need for long-term stimulant use in some children with ADHD.
Related Concept Videos
Chronic Pharyngitis
Etiology
It often arises from persistent viral or bacterial infections affecting sinuses and tonsils.
Additional contributing factors include inadequate dental hygiene, mouth breathing, recurring tonsillitis, allergic rhinitis, laryngopharyngeal reflux, and exposure to smoke, chemicals, and other environmental pollutants. Allergic reactions to pollen, mold, and pet dander, chronic cough, excessive voice usage,...
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings....
Sleep Apnea
The condition is more prevalent among...
Tonsillitis II: Management
Tonsillitis I: Introduction
Etiology
Three primary contributing factors have been identified.
Suctioning the Nasopharyngeal Airway
Equipment Required

