10. Hyperactivity: A Misplaced Burst of Energy
Children are generally energetic, but hyperactivity that resembles symptoms of ADHD may be a symptom of sleep apnea in disguise. In the elaborate tapestry of childhood behavior, this symptom is like an unexpected splash of vibrant color that draws attention but confounds interpretation.
The conundrum here is how a condition associated with poor sleep can result in excess energy. The answer lies in the body’s coping mechanisms. When children are sleep-deprived, they don’t always respond by becoming lethargic; instead, they may become hyperactive as a way to fight off sleepiness. It’s as if the body is compensating for the lack of energy by going into overdrive.
This symptom is a paradox—a whirlwind of activity stemming from a deficit of rest. And this can be particularly confusing for parents and even healthcare providers. Hyperactivity may be misdiagnosed as a primary condition, leading to treatments that do not address the root cause, thereby adding a layer of complexity to an already intricate condition.(10)
