Physical examination during the day is helpful but again of limited value in many instances, since the absolute size of the tonsils and adenoids does not reliably indicate sleep apnea - many kids with huge tonsils breathe just fine at night. The best study method available is polysomnography, or the sleep study. A number of physiologic functions are measured simultaneously during sleep. These studies can sometimes be done in an abbreviated or limited fashion at home, but if the study is normal, an overnight study in a hospital sleep laboratory may still be needed. Treatment of sleep apnea begins with tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy, essentially for all cases.
Weight loss is helpful for obese children.