Snoring is a common phenomenon among children, and according to the Keep Kids Healthy website, occurs in between 3 and 12 percent of all children. Several conditions can cause snoring in children. While mild snoring is usually nothing to be concerned about, louder snoring or snoring combined with breathing difficulty requires a doctor's attention.
Enlarged Adenoids and Tonsils
Enlarged adenoids and tonsils are the chief cause of snoring in children, according to Dr. Nina L. Shapiro at the UCLA School of Medicine. Both the adenoids and tonsils are lymphoid tissue. While adenoid tissue sits behind the nose and above the roof of the mouth, tonsil tissue lies behind the throat. In the On-Line ENT-Consultant website, Dr. Shapiro writes that when these tissues enlarge, the combination of lying flat with the lymphoid tissues relaxing can cause snoring at night.
Obesity
Obesity can cause snoring in both children and adults. This occurs because fat forms around the throat, limiting airways and constricting the throat. According to the Disability Resource Directory, 20 to 40 percent of obese children snore.
Sleep Apnea
Children with obstructive sleep apnea or OSA snore loudly and experience intermittent periods where they stop breathing during the night, according to Keep Kids Healthy. Children with OSA are often tired or sleepy during the day, may wet the bed, have frequent headaches and may have school difficulties. Parents can help diagnose this condition by listening to their child sleeping. Many report restless sleeping and snoring, along with struggles for air. There are often moments of quiet pause before a child may appear to choke and then resume breathing. Parents who suspect sleep apnea should make an appointment with their pediatrician.
Nasal Obstruction
Nasal obstruction is a common cause of snoring in children. There are many things that can cause this obstruction, including allergies, a cold or respiratory infection, or even a deviated septum.
Jaw Abnormalities
Although rare, some children are born with an underdeveloped jaw, according to the Disability Resource Directory. This malformation can lead to snoring because the nerves and muscles in the jaw cannot control the airway.
