September 17, 2012 

Obesity, formula feeding and allergy issues are responsible for an adult type issue in children.  Sleep apnea is occurring at alarming rates in children as young as 3 years old. The consequences of uncontrolled sleep apnea are troublesome.

Clues that your child may have sleep apnea?

1) Snoring

2) Gasping breathing noises

3) Mouth breathing

4) Bed wetting

5) Headaches upon awakening

6) Daytime sleepiness

7) Attention issues 

8) Learning difficulties

What are the consequences of sleep apnea?

1) Learning and attention issues

2) Failure to thrive

3) Sleepiness = cranky behavior

4) High blood pressure

5) Liver fat deposition

6) Depression

7) Hyperactivity

Risks of developing sleep apnea are discussed in a study by DW Beebe et. al. in the September 2012 edition of Pediatrics.  

They noted that the strongest predictors of developing sleep apnea are the absence or short duration of BREASTFEEDING and lower socioeconomic status.  

I also find a subset of these children that were colicky as infants are dairy sensitive.  A 30 day dairy free trial is warranted in these cases.  This has been a valuable and simple way to reduce this issue for some.  

Obesity is obviously a problem. The remedy is known, but difficult to achieve for most.  Initially, I recommend dramatic reductions in all forms of sugar and flour based foods. Secondarily, parents should push toward an anti inflammatory diet with reduced portion sizes.  

A serious issue that is getting worse.  If you think that your child or a loved one has sleep apnea, seek help soon.