Pediatric Sleep Apnea

Diagnosis

Because diagnosis and treatment of pediatric sleep apnea differ from that of adult sleep apnea, it's important to obtain an accurate diagnosis. At Mayo Clinic, your child's diagnosis begins with a physical exam and a medical history, including questions about your child's symptoms.

Diagnostic tests may include:

• Oximetry. During oximetry, a sensor over your sleeping child's finger collects information about blood oxygen levels. This test shows changes in oxygen levels during sleep. Because oximetry doesn't detect all cases of sleep apnea, your doctor may recommend a polysomnogram.
• Polysomnogram. A polysomnogram uses skin sensors to record brain wave activity, breathing patterns, oxygen levels, heart rate and muscle activity while your child sleeps.
• Imaging tests. Your child's doctor may order imaging tests, such as chest X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and CT scans, to show anatomical structures that may be contributing to airway obstruction.

Read more about polysomnogram, chest X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and CT scans at MayoClinic.com.