Sleep Disorders in Children
Is your child finding it difficult to find and/or stay asleep? If so, it is important to consider the fact that children can be impacted by sleep disorders just the same as adults.
Poor sleep in children can lead to a variety of health concerns. Additionally, it has been linked to bad grades in school. With such serious consequences, it is essential to have your child examined by a medical professional.
As with adults, sleep disorders in children can be treated. Before that, however, the child must be diagnosed.
Two Types of Sleep Disorders in Children
Generally speaking, sleep disorders in children fit into one of two categories: dyssomnias and parasomnias.
Dyssomnias include the following:
- Snoring
- Sleep apnea
- Sleep-onset difficulties
- Insufficient sleep syndrome
- Inadequate sleep hygiene
Some of the most common parasomnias include:
- Nightmares
- Night terrors
- Sleepwalking
How can I Help?
If your child is dealing with a sleep problem, schedule an appointment with your child’s doctor. A qualified doctor who has dealt with such issues in the past will know exactly where to start.
Also, don’t be shy about watching your child as they sleep, paying close attention to anything out of the ordinary. This information can come in handy when consulting with a doctor.
Is a Sleep Study Necessary?
At some point, your child may need to complete an overnight sleep study. This will help determine if a sleep disorder, such as sleep apnea or snoring, is present. Once pinpointed, specialized treatment can be prescribed to deal with the problem.
Many people are surprised to find that sleep disorders in children are so common. If your child is having a difficult time falling asleep or staying asleep, there is a good chance of an underlying issue.
Fortunately, sleep disorders in children can be treated in a variety of ways, allowing the child to get a better night's sleep in the future.