It’s not unusual for a child to snore lightly, especially when they have a cold. But if your child snores loudly and regularly, it might be a sign of something more than just nasal congestion.
For many parents, this can be worrying, particularly when snoring disrupts sleep or is accompanied by pauses in breathing. So, how can you tell if your child’s snoring is harmless or a sign of an underlying health condition?
Common causes of snoring in children
Several factors can lead to loud snoring in children. While short-term snoring during an illness is expected, persistent or severe snoring often points to underlying causes, such as:
- Allergic rhinitis – allergies can cause nasal congestion (a blocked nose) and postnasal drip (mucus dripping down the back of your throat), both of which contribute to snoring
- Enlarged tonsils or adenoids – tissues at the back of the throat and nose can swell after repeated infections and partially block the airway
- Nasal blockages or structural issues – a deviated septum (a bent or crooked wall inside the nose) or other anatomical differences may restrict airflow through the nose
- Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) – a more serious condition where the airway is temporarily blocked during sleep, leading to disturbed sleep, gasping or pauses in breathing
Signs that snoring could be a cause for concern
In some cases, your child’s snoring could be caused by an underlying health condition.
Possible signs of an underlying condition may include:
- Loud, regular snoring not linked to a cold
- Restless sleep or frequent waking
- Mouth breathing during the day
- Pauses in breathing while asleep
- Daytime sleepiness or difficulty concentrating
- Behavioural issues or poor performance at school
These signs could suggest a possible issue with breathing during sleep, which may sometimes affect things like growth, behaviour or concentration if left untreated.
If you’re noticing these signs, try not to panic. Many children with sleep apnoea respond well to treatment, and early intervention can greatly improve sleep quality and overall health. With the right support and care, most children go on to sleep soundly and thrive both at home and in school.
When to see an ear, nose and throat specialist
If your child’s snoring is persistent or comes with symptoms of sleep apnoea, it’s time to seek help. An ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist can carry out a thorough assessment, often using a flexible telescope to examine the airway and identify any obstructions such as enlarged adenoids or tonsils.
Treatments for your child’s snoring or underlying condition may include:
- Medication to reduce inflammation or allergy symptoms
- Nasal sprays or antihistamines to relieve congestion caused by allergies
- Weight management support, as excess weight can contribute to airway obstruction
- Surgical removal of the tonsils and/or adenoids (adenotonsillectomy), especially if your child has repeated infections or disturbed sleep
An ENT specialist can check for underlying causes and suggest the most suitable treatment to help your child breathe and sleep more comfortably.
Help your child sleep better
Snoring might seem like a minor annoyance, but if it’s affecting your child’s rest or health, it should be taken seriously. A proper diagnosis can make a big difference to your child’s sleep quality, concentration and overall well-being.
Concerned about your child’s snoring? Book an appointment with Mr Wale Olarinde at ENT Sheffield today. With specialist experience in diagnosing and treating snoring and sleep apnoea in children, Mr Olarinde can help you find the answers and solutions you need.