Sleep disorders

Sleep Disorders in Children

Getting plenty of sleep is crucial to the health and development of a young child, but nearly half of children experience sleep issues at some point in their childhood. Common sleep disorders in children include sleep apnea and insomnia, as well as parasomnias, which are disruptive sleep-related behaviors such as sleepwalking and night terrors.

Sleep disorders in children, especially parasomnias, are not likely to persist past adolescence. However, they can be disruptive to a child's daytime behavior and overall quality of life. We discuss the causes of sleep disorders in children, common symptoms, tips for helping children cope with sleep problems, and when to see a doctor.

What Causes Sleep Disorders in Children?

Certain sleep disorders have similar causes in both adults and children. Obesity is a leading risk factor for developing obstructive sleep apnea  Trusted SourceMerck ManualFirst published in 1899 as a small reference book for physicians and pharmacists, the Manual grew in size and scope to become one of the most widely used comprehensive medical resources for professionals and consumers.View Source , a sleep-related breathing disorder, in people of all ages. Additionally, sleep disorders that may have a genetic predisposition, such as restless legs syndrome, affect children as well as adults. Certain medical issues and anxiety disorders increase risk for sleep issues at any age.

However, behavioral patterns that are unique to children can also lead to sleep-related disorders. Up to about age 5, insomnia is usually the result of inconsistent bedtimes and bedtime-resistant behaviors.

Insomnia

Insomnia is one of the most common sleep disorders  Trusted SourceMerck ManualFirst published in 1899 as a small reference book for physicians and pharmacists, the Manual grew in size and scope to become one of the most widely used comprehensive medical resources for professionals and consumers.View Source and affects 20% to 30% of children. The primary symptoms are trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or both.

Medical experts usually divide insomnia in children into three categories.

• Behavioral insomnia: Most common in children up to 5 years old, this form of insomnia is associated with resistance to sleep, taking a long time to fall asleep, and frequent nighttime wakings. These behaviors happen on occasion with most children, but may be considered a sleep disorder if they occur frequently and persistently and interfere with their normal functioning.
• Conditioned insomnia: More common in older children and adolescents, conditioned insomnia occurs when feelings of anxiety related to bedtime and sleep prevent the child from falling asleep or staying asleep.
• Transient sleep disturbances: Temporary disruptions in a child's normal routine such as traveling, illness, or stressful life events can cause short-term bouts of insomnia.

Childhood insomnia can be challenging for the whole family. However, effective treatments are available. Behavioral changes such as establishing a consistent bedtime routine are typically the first line of treatment and can lead to improvements in well-being for both the child and their caregivers.