WECT TV6 - WECT.com - Wilmington, NC news and weather - Lifewatch: Sleep Apnea
Member Center:
CHARLOTTE -- There is a sharp increase in the number of children getting their tonsils removed, but it's not to treat tonsillitis.
The procedure is being done to treat sleep apnea, a sleep disorder that makes it difficult to breath.
Generally those who have sleep apnea are people who are obese, but it can happen to kids and kids who aren't overweight.
Caitlin Zurita is a healthy, happy 8-year-old.
A few months ago, Caitlin had her tonsils taken out. For years, doctors thought she had severe allergies. But really, she was suffering from severe sleep apnea.
Her enlarged tonsils were blocking her air passages.
Caitlin is among a growing number of kids getting tonsillectomies to treat sleep disorders.
Dr. Stephen Landers, with Our Children's House at Baylor is seeing a sharp increase, and says many of the children are misdiagnosed with learning disabilities.
"They're not getting restful sleep at night so they are having trouble behaving during the day," said Dr. Landers.
Post surgery, Caitlin's energy level has skyrocketed. She can focus, sleep, and breathe better.
Doctors say this is common among children. Kids with learning disabilities or behavioral problems are often found to be suffering from sleep apnea.
Reported by Kristy Ondo
Comments Terms of Use: We welcome your participation in our community. Please keep your comments civil and on point. Notify us of any inappropriate comments by clicking the “Mark as Offensive” link. You must be at least 13 years of age to post comments. By submitting a comment, you agree to these
Terms of Service
You must be logged in to leave a comment. Login or register See all comments |
Want to know the latest from WECT? Follow all the WECT twitter feeds on one page here.
Know someone that goes above and beyond for the community? Nominate them to be a Cape Fear Hero.
