Sleeping Problems Part II

What Is Disrupted Sleep?

Many children have disrupted sleep at some point during their childhood. Sleeping problems include difficulty settling, nightmares, night terrors or sleepwalking, and excessive sleepiness during the day.

What Are The Causes Of Sleeping Problems?

The causes of sleeping problems in children are often unclear. They can include:-

• failure to establish a regular routine
• bedwetting
• general illness
• developmental delay
• psychological factors e.g. anxiety about separation from parents, fear of the dark
• sexual abuse
• environmental factors e.g cold, damp or noisy bedrooms
• sleep apnoea (where the airway is obstructed during sleep.)

What Are The Symptoms Of Sleeping Problems?

The symptoms of sleeping problems in small children can include:-

• sleeping during the day time
• behavioural problems
• growth delay (especially in sleep apnoea - growth hormone is only released during deep sleep)
• poor performance at school

How Are Sleeping Problems In Children Treated?

It can be difficult to isolate a cause for sleeping problems. Developing a bedtime routine may help. Tea, warm bath, story, reassurance can be effective. Treatment with drugs is seldom appropriate. Speak to your GP if you are concerned.

 Sleeping position, and history of tonsil/adenoid problems, may be a clue to sleep apnoea children typically sleep on their elbows and knees with their bottom in the air and neck extended