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Sleep Apnea & Teenagers

Mon, Jun 18, 2012

According to a study presented at the annual Associated Professional Sleep Societies conference, teenagers with obstructive sleep apnea are more likely to develop problems such as aggressiveness and hypreactivity. 

The research was based on a study of 263 adolescents, measured at two different times in their lives, approximately 5 years apart.  The study found children who suffer from sleep apnea and continue to suffer from the condition into their teenage years had a higher rate of behavioural and cognitive problems.

Hyperactivity and aggressiveness were identified as major issues, but other problems also existed, including reduced attention span, difficulties controlling emotions, difficulties in social situations and diminished ability to independently care for themselves.

The study highlights the importance of identifying and treating sleep apnea as early as possible. 

Contrary to popular opinion, sleep apnea is not a condition which is restricted to a particular, older age group.  Infants can suffer from sleep apnea, as can the elderly and everyone in between.  The condition affects both genders and people of all shapes and sizes, not just those who are overweight.

Common indications and symptoms of sleep apnea include:  snoring, waking tiredness and daytime sleepiness.  Left untreated, the condition can lead to hypertension, type 2 diabetes, metabolic retardation and consequent obesity, reduced libido and impotence, plus much more.

If you suspect you have sleep apnea or some other form of sleep disorder, arrange a diagnostic sleep study to determine the nature and severity of your condition.  Portable diagnostic technology means your sleep study can be done in the comfort, convenience and privacy of your own home.

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