Sleep Disorders in Children
Common Sleep Disorders in Children
Childhood insomnia (10-30%)
Obstructive sleep apnea (1-5%)
Restless Leg Syndrome (2-4%)
Parasomnias (up to 50%)
Delayed sleep phase syndrome (7-16%).
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Treatment of Sleep Disorders in Children
When sleep disturbances disrupt a child's daily life, a Practitioner or Clinician should be consulted. Treatment for sleep disorders in children varies depending on the type of disorder, length of time of the disorder and the associated symptoms. In many cases, sleep disorders may be caused by stress or anxiety that can be commonly treated with therapy or behavioral interventions. In situations where the cause of the sleep disturbance is unknown, an overnight sleep study, or polysomnography, may be performed, especially for children with daytime sleepiness and problems staying asleep. This study monitors the child's body functions while he or she sleeps, in order to determine the cause of the sleeping disorder. Once a cause has been identified, an appropriate treatment plan may be implemented. This often necessitates referral to a sleep spcialists if sleep hygiene measures fail.