Which of the following is a symptom of obstructive sleep apnea in children?

• A. Enuresis
• B. Headache
• C. Snoring
• D. Weight loss

Answer: (C)

Obstructive sleep apnea in children happens when the upper airway partially or completely narrows during sleep, causing airflow to vibrate through the tissues and produce snoring. This noisier breathing pattern is a direct sign of airway obstruction and is often the first noticeable symptom for parents, especially since enlarged tonsils or adenoids are common culprits in kids. While other signs like enuresis or headaches can appear due to disrupted sleep, they aren’t as specific to the obstruction itself. Weight loss isn’t a typical hallmark symptom of pediatric sleep apnea. So, the snoring you’d hear during sleep best reflects the presence of obstructive sleep apnea in children.