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CPAP Alternatives for Children

Sleep apnea is a disease which makes it difficult to breathe while sleeping, usually because something is obstructing the airway. The use of a CPAP device is a common way of treating sleep apnea, however it can be difficult to get a child to wear one and to breathe correctly using it. There are some alternatives when it comes to the use of a CPAP device, particularly for children. All alternatives should be discussed with a medical provider -- if possible, one who has been certified by the American Board of Sleep Medicine.

  1. Tonsil Removal

    • For most children with sleep apnea, doctors will recommend removing the tonsils and the adenoids. This will reduce the obstruction in the throat and make it easier for a child to breathe. A tonsillectomy can often be done as an out-patient surgery, though doctors will sometimes want to keep children who have sleep apnea in the hospital overnight for observation.

    Medications

    • Sometimes doctors will prescribe respiratory medications for infants born prematurely who develop sleep apnea. Also, sometimes antisnoring medication can be helpful, though it is important to find child-safe doses.

    Weight Loss

    • Obesity is one of the causes of sleep apnea, though more commonly for adults than for children, according to the Health Library at the Children's Medical Center in Dallas, Texas. If obesity is the cause of sleep apnea in a child, a supervised weight loss program can provide an alternative to the use of a CPAP device.

    Oral Appliances

    • Dentists have developed oral appliances that can be used to treat sleep apnea. They are custom-fitted to the user and worn at night to keep the airway tissue from closing. FDA-approved oral appliances include Thorton Adjustable Positioner (TAP), SomnoMed MAS, Herbst Telescopic Appliance, SNOR-X, Tongue Retaining Device, Nose Breathe Appliance and Sleep Apnea Goldilocks Appliance.

    Behavioral Therapy

    • Mild cases of sleep apnea can be treated with lifestyle changes. These can include using pillows to keep your child from sleeping on his back and to raise the head higher, avoiding heavy meals and dairy products close to bedtime, limiting the use of antihistamines at night, using a humidifier in your child's bedroom and trying to keep dust and allergens at a low level.

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