When we think of children sleeping, we often picture calm, peaceful rest – but for many Nigerian families in the UK, bedtime might not be that simple. Some children snore loudly, breathe through their mouths, or even briefly stop breathing during sleep. These signs might seem harmless, but new research suggests they could be linked to emotional and behavioural problems down the line.
A major study published in Pediatrics followed over 11,000 children and found that those with sleep-related breathing issues – like snoring, mouth breathing, or sleep apnoea – from as early as 6 months old were more likely to develop problems such as hyperactivity, aggression, anxiety, or depression by the age of 7.
Why it matters to UK-based Nigerian families
Many Nigerian parents in the UK juggle long work hours, tight schedules, and the demands of raising children in a new cultural environment. It’s easy to miss subtle signs that your child isn’t getting restful sleep. But ignoring sleep issues could impact your child’s wellbeing, school performance, and emotional health.
Sleep-related breathing issues in children aren’t just about noise. These disturbances can lower the amount of oxygen getting to the brain during sleep – potentially affecting how the brain develops, especially in areas that control mood and behaviour.
What causes sleep-related breathing problems?
- Blocked noses from colds or allergies (dust mites and mould are common in UK homes)
- Being overweight, which can put pressure on the airway
- Enlarged tonsils or adenoids, which are common in many children
Signs your child might have a sleep-related breathing issue:
- Loud snoring or gasping during sleep
- Breathing through the mouth instead of the nose
- Daytime sleepiness or poor attention in school
- Behavioural changes (aggression, anxiety)
- Bedwetting in older children
What can you do?
If you notice any of the above signs, especially snoring that happens regularly, don’t ignore it. Speak to your GP and share what you’ve observed – even better, record a short video on your phone to show the doctor.
While surgery (like removing tonsils) may be recommended in some cases, it’s not always necessary. Sometimes the cause is an allergy or temporary nasal congestion. A proper assessment is key.
Final thoughts
This study doesn’t prove that snoring or sleep apnoea directly causes behavioural problems – but the link is strong enough that parents should pay attention. In the UK, where waiting lists can be long and awareness may be limited, early action makes a difference.
If you’re unsure, don’t wait. Talk to your GP, especially if your child is also struggling with school or emotions. A good night’s sleep is more than just rest – it’s essential for your child’s growth, development, and mental wellbeing.
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