Children who lead sedentary lives are at a higher risk of breathing problems: AIIMS expert

One of the biggest public health concerns of the twenty-first century is the sharp increase in lifestyle-related diseases in children. Today's kids live sedentary lives, which is bad for both their physical and emotional well-being. Their sedentary lifestyle, which includes extended periods of sitting and screen time, is making them increasingly vulnerable to lifestyle disordersincluding obesity, diabetes, COPD, hypertension, anxiety, possible cardiac problems, and so on.In a study published in the journal "Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome in Children, thesebreathing problems are becoming well recognized as a medical condition, particularly among Asian Indian children ten years of age and older.
What are the symptoms of OSA?
The most prevalent respiratory disorder associated with sleep is called OSA. It is characterized by bouts of whole or partial obstruction of the upper airway, which results in either diminished or absent breathing while you sleep. There are a number of factors contributing to the rise of childhood OSA, including obesity, metabolic syndrome, and the expanding urbanization and nutrition shift. In children, the most prevalent cause of OSA is enlarged tonsils and adenoids. Among the other causes include anatomical defects, oxidative stress, allergies, cleft palate repairs, obesity, tumors, down syndrome, and receding chins. Metabolic, cardiovascular, and cognitive diseases.

Here’s what the AIIMS expert says
Dr. Randeep Guleria, the former director and CEO of AIIMS, New Delhi, and chairman of the Institute of Internal Medicine & Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Medanta, claims "An absence of airflow accompanied by continuous movement of the chest and abdomen walls for a period of time greater than two breaths is known as OSA in infants. The gold standard method for diagnosing it in youngsters is to perform a polysomnography test.”

“When a diagnosis is made, children should begin treatment, which may involve an adenotonsillectomy if necessary, as well as the management of obesity, cardiovascular disease, and hyperlipemia if it is present. Children should also adopt a variety of lifestyle changes, such as engaging in planned exercise, leisure activities, sports, and other physical pursuits. Other methods of treating OSA include surgical procedures and the use of CPAP devices,” he adds.

Children with this sleep-related disorder are deprived of the deep, peaceful sleep they ought to have every night. Sleep is essential for the mental development of young children. Regular deep sleepers benefit from enhanced learning, focus, memory, and general well-being. Children with OSA may experience long-term effects on their physical and emotional health.
Parents and other concerned caregivers should consult sleep specialists and healthcare professionals to understand more about this health issue. These professionals can assist them in detecting the problem early and taking the necessary action. Children will be able to enjoy this golden period of their life and timely care will be ensured.