Don’t ignore the snore: Understanding Sleep-Disordered Breathing in Adults and Children

Snoring: More Than Just a Nuisance

Snoring is often brushed off as a harmless inconvenience, but it can be a sign of a serious underlying condition: sleep-disordered breathing (SDB). SDB is a common problem that affects millions of adults and children and can have a wide range of negative effects on overall health and well-being.

The Consequences of Ignoring Snoring

If left untreated, SDB can lead to serious health problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. In children, SDB can manifest as behavioral concerns and difficulty in school. Studies have shown a strong link between SDB and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children due to it's harmful effects on the brain during development. Children with ADHD are more likely to experience symptoms of SDB such as snoring, sleep apnea, and daytime fatigue, which can exacerbate the symptoms of ADHD. Additionally, SDB can cause cognitive and behavioral problems that can mimic the symptoms of ADHD, so it's imperative to consider the possibility of SDB first in children with signs and symptoms of ADHD.  

Effective Treatments for SDB

As a myofunctional therapist and breathing coach, I specialize in therapies that can help alleviate the symptoms of SDB and improve overall health. Myofunctional therapy is a holistic approach that addresses the underlying causes of SDB, such as poor oral muscle tone, tethered oral tissues (tongue-tie), and malocclusion. By strengthening the muscles of the face and jaw and retraining the tongue and lips, myofunctional therapy can improve breathing and alleviate SDB symptoms. Additionally, the Buteyko Breathing method can also demonstrate positive outcomes in SDB by improving breathing patterns and retraining the body to breathe through the nose.

Take Action for Improved Sleep

Don't let SDB control your life or the life of a loved one. At Breathe Well Ann Arbor, we provide comprehensive assessments with personalized therapy plans to help alleviate the symptoms of SDB. Follow the link below to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards improved sleep and overall health. With our expertise in myofunctional therapy and breathing techniques, we can help you overcome SDB and raise your quality of life.