Why Is My Child’s Breathing Noisy? A Parent’s Guide to Stridor, Croup and When to Seek Help Hearing an unusual noise when your child breathes can be frightening. Parents may describe the sound as squeaky, harsh, wheezy, whistling or “croupy”. Some notice it only when their child is crying or excited. Others hear it while the child is resting or sleeping. One of the most important points is that not all noisy breathing is the same . A noise coming from the nose is different from a wheeze coming from the lower airways. A harsh sound when a child inhales may be stridor , which can indicate narrowing of the upper airway or voice box. Many causes of noisy breathing in children are treatable, and some are temporary. However, because a child’s airway is relatively small, worsening breathing difficulty should always be taken seriously. Mr Gaurav Kumar, Consultant ENT Surgeon, assesses children with ear, nose, throat, voice and upper-airway concerns from Lond...
What are the signs of sleep apnoea in children? Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that affects both adults and children. In children, the signs of sleep apnea can be different from those in adults. Here are some signs of sleep apnea in children: Snoring: Loud, persistent snoring is the most common sign of sleep apnea in children. Pauses in breathing: Children with sleep apnea may stop breathing for a few seconds during sleep, and then gasp or snort to catch their breath. Restless sleep: Children with sleep apnea may toss and turn in bed and may sleep in unusual positions. Daytime sleepiness: Children with sleep apnea may be excessively sleepy during the day, have trouble staying awake in class, or have difficulty concentrating. Bedwetting: Children with sleep apnea may wet the bed even after they have been potty-trained. Behavioral problems: Sleep apnea in children can cause irritability, aggression, and o...