Snoring is dangerous also in children

In a recent medical report, it is said that children who frequently snore are likely to show low IQ.

International Business Times: Children who snore may have lower IQs

It is a shocking report. But the etiology is not so complicated. People snore when their airway is obstructed. Such condition is burdening not only for the circular system but also the brain.

In the adult, sleep apnea syndrome is a common but underrecognized disease.  They tend to snore, stop breathing a while during sleeping. Sleep apnea syndrome can cause hypertension and lowered concentration in daily activity. The situation is the same in children.

Now it is to be considered when snoring children should take treatment. In the childhood, the body shape is rapidly changing. Day by day, their body is growing. Medication, operational intervention, and mechanical support may not be necessary for all child patients. On the other hand, longitudinal effects of sleep apnea are obvious. Pediatrists should be aware of the sleep status of children visiting the clinic even if they and their parents never spontaneously mentioned it.