Children's Sleep Health
Regular snoring may indicate that a child would benefit from a professional assessment.
Quality sleep supports healthy growth, learning and daily wellbeing.
Every child is different, and symptoms should be evaluated individually.
Seeking advice early may help identify sleep-related concerns sooner.
of children snore
of those have sleep apnoea
of OSA kids on ADHD meds
points lost untreated
The Condition
Children can experience a range of sleep-related breathing concerns. While occasional snoring may occur, persistent snoring, restless sleep or breathing difficulties during sleep may warrant professional assessment. Every child is different, and treatment recommendations depend on individual findings following a comprehensive evaluation.
The ADHD Connection
Sleep-disordered breathing can be associated with behavioural, attention and learning difficulties in some children. These symptoms may overlap with ADHD; however, obstructive sleep apnoea and ADHD are distinct conditions and can also occur together. A comprehensive clinical assessment can help determine the underlying cause of a child’s symptoms and guide appropriate management.
A child who snores is four times more likely to be in the bottom 25% of their class academically.
Untreated OSA during development can permanently reduce a child’s cognitive potential by 10–15 IQ points.
Children are placed on stimulant medications for what is actually a treatable breathing disorder — avoidable with proper assessment.
Chronic mouth breathing and jaw misalignment leads to poor craniofacial aesthetics and severe dental crowding.
Irritability, aggression, and social difficulties stemming from chronic sleep deprivation affect schooling and relationships.
The heart pumps harder to compensate for low oxygen, contributing to long-term cardiovascular burden.
Waiting until age 12 to seek help means missing the critical developmental window — treatment becomes more complex and less effective.
The Science Behind It
Nocturnal enuresis is common in children with obstructive sleep apnoea, and there is a clear physiological explanation.
Occasional snoring can occur in some children, particularly during a cold or nasal congestion. However, frequent or persistent snoring may be associated with sleep-disordered breathing and should be assessed by a qualified healthcare professional. An early evaluation can help determine whether further investigation or treatment is appropriate.
Our Practice
Dr Manish Shah holds BDS, MBBS and MMed (Sleep Medicine) — a rare combination of dental and medical expertise.
5.0 Google Rating with hundreds of verified reviews from patients across Sydney.
Above Town Hall Station with on-site parking. Suite 403, 307 Pitt St, Sydney.
Health fund claims accepted. Interest-free payment plans available — get treated now, pay later.
State-of-the-art airway scanning and diagnostic technology with compassionate, personalised care.
Don't wait for it to worsen
Book a consultation with Dr Manish Shah. Early intervention prevents cognitive, developmental, and behavioural consequences that last a lifetime.
Suite 403, 307 Pitt St, Sydney NSW 2000
