Sleep is undoubtedly one of the most important aspects in children’s lives. It is fundamental for the proper functioning of the human body, especially in the case of little ones, who are in full physical and cognitive development. Underestimating its importance would be a serious mistake. Sleep disorders in children are very common and can significantly affect children’s quality of life and their learning abilities, social skills as well as their emotional availability.
Some sleep disorders can be indicators of underlying health problems that require immediate medical attention. It is essential that parents are informed about the symptoms of different sleep disorders in children and know the signals indicating that it’s time to seek help. According to my clinical observations, a large contingent of children do not sleep enough. A large number of children are sleep-deprived or quality sleep-deprived.
Sleep disorders related to circadian rhythm
Circadian rhythm disorders in children are problems that affect their internal biological clock, which tells them when to sleep and when to be awake. The circadian rhythm is identified among other things from wake-up times, meal times during the day, etc. When the body loses its bearings, when we don’t provide food routines, bedtime routines as well as consistency in wake-up times, this circadian rhythm becomes disturbed and falling asleep and sleep quality suffer.
In children, this can make it difficult to fall asleep and wake up early, or make them drowsy during the day. Among the most common disorders are:
- Sleep phase delay syndrome
- Sleep phase advance syndrome
- Disruption of the circadian rhythm outside 24 hours
How to deal with these sleep problems?
The solution will depend on the type and severity of the disorder. Some causes of sleep problems in children are easy to identify and treat. Others, however, will require professional help. Here are some things you can do to help:
- Maintain a regular sleep schedule: this means going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, even on weekends.
- Establish a sleep routine: A relaxing bedtime routine, such as taking a warm bath or reading a book, can help prepare the child for sleep and prevent sleep disorders from persisting.
- Avoid stimulants before bedtime: children should avoid caffeinated drinks or foods containing sugar or refined carbohydrates and colorings before bedtime.
- Control light exposure: sunlight and artificial lights can affect circadian rhythm. Parents can help treat sleep disorders by keeping their children away from electronic device screens until late at night.
- Consider using light therapy: Light therapy is a therapeutic option that can help restore circadian rhythm. Doctors may recommend light therapy in certain cases.
- After trying everything, I insist on the word everything, medication can be considered. In our time, the reflex to resort to pharmacology quickly when facing an issue is a reflex that we must try to reserve as a last resort.
Sleep disorders related to respiratory problems
It is not very instinctive to suspect breathing problems as a cause of sleep problems in children. However, certain health conditions affect breathing during sleep, which can interfere with rest and lead to long-term health problems.
The three most common disorders are:
- Obstructive sleep apnea: occurs when the airway becomes blocked during sleep, causing an interruption in breathing that can last from a few seconds to over a minute. This can occur several times during the night and can lead to loud snoring, frequent awakenings, daytime fatigue and other health problems.
- Hypopnea: in this case, breathing becomes shallower instead of stopping completely.
- Asthma
Treatment of sleep disorders related to breathing problems in children depends on the severity and underlying cause. In mild cases, lifestyle modifications may be all that is needed:
- Lose weight
- Avoiding certain foods before bedtime
- Improve sleep hygiene
In more severe cases, devices may be recommended to keep the airway open, such as a mask or a dental splint that holds the jaw in a specific position. In extreme cases, surgery may be considered to remove the tissue blocking the airway.
It is important for parents to consult a doctor, a sleep specialist such as a respiratory therapist if they think their child is suffering from one of these sleep disorders.
I have developed cutting-edge expertise to advise you on issues related to everything that touches your children’s sleep, directly or indirectly. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to contact me. I also offer complete, practical training! The success rate of those who have taken it approaches 100%, and this, in the vast majority of cases, within a few days at most.
