Dr. Jon Slezak on Recognizing and Managing Sleep Apnea in Kids
Dr. Jon Slezak, an otolaryngologist at BayCare Clinic’s Ear, Nose & Throat, recently appeared on FOX 11’s Field House Friday to discuss pediatric sleep apnea—a condition that affects up to 5% of children, often due to enlarged tonsils or adenoids.
Pediatric sleep apnea is characterized by repeated pauses in breathing throughout the night. These interruptions can lead to poor sleep quality and a range of daytime symptoms that may impact a child’s health and development.
Common signs and symptoms include:
- Loud snoring not associated with illness
- Gasping or choking during sleep
- Restless sleep or frequent awakenings
- Pauses in breathing
- Bedwetting
During the day, children with sleep apnea may show signs of fatigue, difficulty concentrating, or behavioral issues. Treatment depends on severity and may include allergy management, weight loss, CPAP therapy, or dental devices. In many cases, removing the tonsils and adenoids can effectively resolve the condition.