Misdiagnosing Sleep Apnea as ADHD
Did you know that attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects over 11 million Americans? This increasingly common condition is indicated by symptoms including hyperactivity, inattentiveness, and impulsivity.
Nearly 75% of children and adults with ADHD also suffer from sleep problems, which is why the condition is frequently misdiagnosed. Sleep apnea and ADHD carry similar symptoms such as fatigue, irritability, and lack of motivation.
If your child has been diagnosed with ADHD and they also experience common sleep apnea symptoms such as snoring and feeling drowsy during the day, it’s possible they’re actually suffering from sleep apnea. Dr. Edward Hobbs is a member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine. He’ll make sure your child gets the correct diagnosis and treatment for their condition.
Signs Your Child’s ADHD Is Actually Sleep Apnea
Identifying the similarities between ADHD and sleep apnea is important in determining the right diagnosis. Indicators of ADHD may include:
- Irritability
- Forgetfulness
- Impulsivity
- Daytime fatigue
- Disorganization
- Disinterest
Due to the overlapping symptoms of the two conditions, sleep apnea is often left untreated or misdiagnosed. Dr. Hobbs will often recommend taking a sleep study as the first step towards properly diagnosing and treating your child’s sleep apnea.
The results of your child’s sleep study will be reviewed by a physician. If it turns out your child is suffering from sleep apnea, they’ll be provided with a prescription for care. Then Dr. Hobbs can help you find the best treatment option for your child. We offer various CPAP alternatives to relieve sleep difficulties, so your child can get a healthy night’s sleep every night
Children With ADHD
The American Sleep Association revealed that about 25% of children with ADHD actually have sleep apnea. Sleep apnea symptoms found in children with ADHD include:
- Sleepwalking
- Bedwetting
- Night sweats
- Mouth-breathing
- Poor attention span
- Behavioral issues
This common misrecognition is a continuing problem that follows children into adolescence. It’s important to identify the difference between ADHD and sleep apnea in your child to ensure their well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a sleep study?
A sleep study is an overnight diagnostic study that monitors your heart rate, brain activity, and other vital signs throughout your sleep. The study can be done in a sleep physician’s laboratory or at home. Your physician will give you the correct diagnosis and provide you with a prescription.
Does sleep apnea cause ADHD?
While research doesn’t suggest sleep apnea causes ADHD, current studies suggest there is a connection and that sleep apnea can worsen ADHD symptoms As well, sleep apnea has similar symptoms to ADHD. Because of the similarities, there’s often a wrong diagnosis and can worsen as time goes by. It’s crucial to undergo a sleep study to get the correct diagnosis.
Can sleep apnea cause my lack of focus?
The common side effects of sleep apnea include:
- Memory problems
- Daytime sleepiness
- Concentrating issues
Due to these symptoms portrayed as ADHD, patients with sleep apnea don’t realize it’s caused by waking up often at night. It’s important to undergo a sleep study to get the correct diagnosis and get the treatment to subside the symptoms.
Finding an Effective Solution With Dr. Hobbs
If you have questions about sleep apnea and how it can affect your child, give us a call at 903-686-9076 to learn more. We’ll also be happy to answer your questions about our treatment options for sleep apnea. It’s time for your child to get a better night’s rest.
You can also fill out our contact form at the bottom of the page, and one of our friendly team members will get right back to you.