Snoring vs sleep apnea

Snoring vs sleep apnea

Dear Dr. Donya,

I was relieved to read your article in The Jakarta Post on
children who snore as I believe I have found the answer to my
six-year-old son's snoring problem.

The problem first appeared when Albert was about three years
old. Upon the recommendation of an otolaryngologist, his tonsils
and adenoids were removed at the age of three and a half.

However, the snoring problem recurred and in fact, it was
getting worse. Upon the suggestion of another otolaryngologist,
Albert underwent another adenoidectomy and had his sinuses
cleaned about five months ago.

As Albert sleeps with me, I have noticed that he still snores
but not as bad as before his second surgery. His snoring gets
worse every time he catches a cold. We also do our best at home
and at school to prevent him from becoming allergic to dust
mites.

I am interested to know if you would suggest that he use a
nasal mask. Could you advise us more on this?

-- Thomas

Dear Mr. Tan,

Nasal masks (CPAP) are recommended for a person with
obstructive sleep apnea, but not for a person who snores. I am
not sure if your son needs a CPAP. If you suspect your son has
sleep apnea, take him to see a lung specialist. I am sure there
are many doctors in Jakarta who can determine his condition
through testing. Thank you for your letter and interest.

-- Dr. Donya