A mother reports that her 4-month-old infant is lethargic, sleeps 18 hours a day, and snores. The nurse recognizes these signs are characteristic of what?
Hypothyroidism
The signs of lethargy, excessive sleepiness, and snoring in a 4-month-old infant can be indicative of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). OSA is a condition that causes the upper airway to become partially or completely blocked during sleep, leading to decreased oxygen levels and disrupted sleep patterns.
Sleep apnea in infants is relatively rare, and when it does occur, it is often associated with other pre-existing medical conditions such as craniofacial abnormalities, neuromuscular disorders, or gastroesophageal reflux disease.
It is important for the infant to be evaluated by a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause of these symptoms. In some cases, treatment may be necessary to ensure adequate oxygenation and alleviate sleep disturbances.
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