The Value of a Questionnaire in Identifying Children Presenting with Obstructive Sleep Apnoea at Risk of Enuresis

Abstract

Background: Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), nocturia, and enuresis are all associated with disrupted sleep. Emerging evidence suggests OSA may be an underlying cause of enuresis in children. This study aimed to explore the correlation between OSA and enuresis and assess the utility of a questionnaire in identifying at-risk children in a South African setting. Methods: This prospective clinical study was conducted over 12 weeks at the University of the Witwatersrand (WITS) teaching hospitals' Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) department. Children aged 5 to 13 years presenting with symptoms suggestive of OSA were screened using sleep pulse oximetry and videotaping. Parents of children diagnosed with OSA completed a questionnaire designed to assess the presence and impact of enuresis. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse the data. Results: Sixty-three children were enrolled, with a mean age of 6.3 years; 57.1% were female. Most (82.5%) were receiving ENT treatment. Daytime sleepiness was reported in 46% of children, and 39.9% were underperforming at school. Enuresis was reported in 31.8% of children, with 44.4% experiencing bedwetting in the past six months. The correlation between OSA and enuresis was weak (R = 0.105, p = 0.41). Risk scores varied significantly by gender (p = 0.04) but not by age (p = 0.77). Conclusion: While no significant association between OSA and enuresis was found, enuresis remains prevalent in children with OSA. Male children showed higher risk scores, v suggesting gender-specific vulnerability. A follow-up study with a control group and a more diverse population is recommended.