Don’t Ignore the Snore: Kids, Sleep, and Hidden Health Red Flags 🚩 Sleep Disordered Breathing with David McIntosh
As parents, we often think of snoring in kids as something harmless—even endearing. A noisy sleeper can easily be dismissed as “normal” or just another quirky trait of childhood. But according to paediatric ENT surgeon and sleep expert Dr. David McIntosh, snoring is far from cute. It’s a potential red flag for a condition known as sleep disordered breathing, and ignoring it could have long-term consequences for your child’s health and wellbeing.
In this episode of Thriving Parenting, Dr. McIntosh shares eye-opening insights that every parent needs to hear.
Why Snoring Matters in Children
Unlike adults, where occasional snoring might just be a nuisance, snoring in children often points to a deeper problem. Dr. McIntosh explains that snoring is usually a sign of airway obstruction—the child isn’t getting enough oxygen while sleeping. This can put stress on their body and affect their overall development.
Children with sleep disordered breathing may experience:
Interrupted or restless sleep
Mouth breathing throughout the night
Daytime fatigue or irritability
Difficulty concentrating at school
Growth and behavioural issues
What’s especially alarming is that many of these symptoms are mistaken for unrelated issues like ADHD, stubbornness, or simply “bad sleep habits.”
The Link Between Sleep and Development
Healthy, uninterrupted sleep is critical for a child’s brain and body. It’s when growth hormones are released, memories are consolidated, and emotional regulation takes place. If sleep is consistently disrupted by snoring or airway blockage, kids may struggle academically, socially, and even physically.
Dr. McIntosh notes that children with untreated sleep disordered breathing may:
Show signs of hyperactivity or poor focus
Struggle to keep up with peers in growth
Develop long-term health risks if left untreated
Warning Signs Parents Shouldn’t Miss
So how can you tell if your child’s snoring is a cause for concern? Dr. McIntosh highlights key red flags parents should watch for:
Persistent snoring three or more nights per week
Pauses in breathing or gasping during sleep
Excessive sweating at night
Teeth grinding
Mouth breathing, even during the day
If these signs are present, it’s time to take action.
What Parents Can Do
The good news? Sleep disordered breathing is treatable, especially when caught early. Dr. McIntosh encourages parents not to wait or brush off concerns.
Here are steps you can take:
Record your child sleeping – Videos help doctors see what’s happening.
Talk to your paediatrician – Share concerns and observations clearly.
Seek a specialist referral – An ENT or sleep specialist can provide accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Explore treatment options – These may include addressing enlarged tonsils or adenoids, orthodontic interventions, or tailored therapies.
Why Early Intervention Matters
The earlier parents address sleep disordered breathing, the better the outcomes for their child’s health and development. Left unchecked, this condition can affect learning, emotional regulation, and physical growth. Intervention can literally change the trajectory of a child’s life.
Snoring in children is never “just snoring.” It’s a health signal that deserves attention. With experts like Dr. David McIntosh leading the way, parents have the knowledge and tools to act early, seek help, and ensure their child thrives.
If your child snores, mouth breathes, or struggles with restless nights, don’t ignore the signs. It could be the key to unlocking better sleep, improved behaviour, and a healthier future.
