Obstructive Sleep Apnea Effects on Pulmonary and Respiratory Muscle Function of Obese Children and Adolescents: A

Sainatee Pratanaphon1, Nuntigar Sonsuwan2, Sonsuwan Chaimano1

  • 1Department of Physical Therapy, Chiang Mai University, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai, Thailand.

Insights

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in obese children did not significantly alter overall pulmonary and respiratory muscle function. However, specific airflow measures like maximal mid-expiratory flow were reduced in children with OSA.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Pulmonology
  • Sleep Medicine
  • Obesity Research

Background:

  • Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is linked to reduced lung function in adults.
  • The impact of OSA on respiratory health in obese children remains less understood.
  • Children with OSA may be at higher risk for airway obstruction.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the effects of OSA on pulmonary function and respiratory muscle strength in obese children and adolescents.
  • To compare lung function in obese children with and without OSA.

Main Methods:

  • A cross-sectional study compared 12 obese children with OSA to 12 matched controls.
  • Pulmonary function tests, maximal inspiratory pressure, and maximum voluntary ventilation were assessed.
  • Participants were matched for age, gender, and body mass index.

Main Results:

  • Obese children with OSA showed significantly lower maximal mid-expiratory flow and forced expiratory flow at 50% and 75% of vital capacity compared to controls.
  • No significant differences were found in other pulmonary function variables between groups.
  • Maximal inspiratory pressure and maximum voluntary ventilation were lower in the OSA group but not statistically significant.

Conclusions:

  • OSA did not significantly alter overall pulmonary and respiratory muscle function in obese children and adolescents.
  • Specific airflow reductions (maximal mid-expiratory flow, FEV50/75) warrant further investigation in this population.
  • Specialized assessments may be needed to detect subtle respiratory changes in pediatric OSA.
Abstract

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