The Impact of Obstructive Sleep-Disordered Breathing on Behavior and Mental Health in Children
摘要
Obstructive sleep-disordered breathing (OSDB) is prevalent in children and can significantly impact their mental health. This chapter explores the intricate relationship between OSDB and various neurobehavioral and neurocognitive outcomes in children. Sleep fragmentation and intermittent hypoxia, characteristic features of OSDB, can lead to a range of issues including parasomnias, nocturnal enuresis, and difficulties with attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. The potential overlap between OSDB and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is also explored, highlighting the diagnostic challenges and the importance of considering both conditions in affected children. Additionally, the chapter examines the impact of OSDB on brain development, particularly in regions crucial for executive function and memory, and discusses the potential long-term consequences of untreated OSDB. Finally, the effects of therapeutic interventions such as adenotonsillectomy and continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy on sleep behavior and neurocognitive function are explored, emphasizing the need for further research to optimize treatment strategies. This comprehensive overview underscores the importance of early identification and effective management of OSDB in children to mitigate its detrimental effects on their mental well-being and cognitive development.