Sleep Apnea

I've been wondering for a few years about whether Ben has sleep apnea or not. Marc has severe sleep apnea and it took me 4 years to convince him to go to the sleep lab. It was easy for me to hear it when he stopped and started breathing, however, it isn't that easy with Ben.

Our ped suggested I run a tape recorder while he sleeps and then listen to it for possible apnea episodes. Can't say that the idea of doing things this way enthralls me so I've let the status quo stand.

Now I am not so sure that I did the right thing. I think it is time for Ben to go to the sleep lab. He's fast asleep between Marc and I and he's making noises very much like the ones Marc makes when he restarts his breathing (thankfully he now uses a CPAP machine so I don't spend my nights in terror waiting for him to stop breathing and not start up again).

I've listened and listened and I don't hear the stopping part, but I do hear the great gasp of breath that sounds remarkably like breathing starting again.

Tomorrow Marc needs to toodle off to the sleep lab and make an appointment for Ben to be given the once over and I need to get onto the net to find out how they treat sleep apnea in kids. A CPAP machine does not sound like a great option for a 7 year old.