Sleep well, live well
DOES MY CHILD HAVE A SLEEP PROBLEM?
- Imtiaz Ahmad MD, MPH, FCCP
- Updated on: January 23, 2024
- Restless Leg Syndrome, Sleep & Health, Sleep & Teens
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Table of Contents
Sleep problems and sleep disorders are common among children. Most sleep problems have warning signs. You should discuss these signs and symptoms with your child’s health care provider. Some sleep problems go away as a child grows and develops. Most ongoing sleep problems can be treated effectively.
KEY POINTS
Sleep is essential for optimal health in children. Be sure that your child is getting enough sleep each night. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends that children and teens get the following amounts of sleep on a regular basis to promote optimal health:
Infants 4-12 months old: 12-16 hours (including naps)
Children 3-5 years old: 10-13 hours (including naps)
Children 1-2 years old: 11-14 hours (including naps)
Children 6-12 years old: 9-12 hours
Teens 13-18 years old: 8-10 hours
GENERAL OVERVIEW
Sleep disorders prevent children from getting the healthy sleep that they need. Children who don’t sleep well can be tired and cranky during the day. They also can have behavioral problems. Look for these common warning signs of sleep problems in children:
Restless legs
Children may complain that they have a creepy-crawly, tugging, itchy or tingly sensation in their legs when they try to sleep. Symptoms of restless legs syndrome tend to improve with walking or stretching.
Sleepwalking
It is common for children to sleepwalk. They usually stop sleepwalking by the time they become a teen. Sleepwalking can be dangerous if your child uses stairs or appliances, or leaves the house.
Excessive daytime sleepiness
Warning signs include having trouble waking up in the morning and acting sleepy throughout the day. Other symptoms include a general lack of daytime energy and an unexplained decrease in daytime performance. Another warning sign is if your child takes naps at unusual times of day. However, it is normal for children to take naps up to about 5 years of age.
Difficulty falling asleep and problems sleeping through the night
At one time or another, most children have trouble sleeping through the night. It is more concerning if the problem becomes a nightly pattern or if it has a negative effect on your child during the day.
Nightmares
It is normal for a child to be frightened by a vivid dream. However, frequent nightmares are much less common. Nightmares become a problem if they cause anxiety, distress or bedtime resistance.
Snoring or breathing pauses during sleep
Many children will snore when they have a cold or allergies. Nightly snoring may be a sign of obstructive sleep apnea. It can be caused by a deviated nasal septum or enlarged tonsils and adenoids. Warning signs include periods of snoring followed by long, silent pauses between breaths.
Screaming
An episode of sleep terrors involves waking with a feeling of intense fear. It often occurs along with a cry or piercing scream. Your child may be unresponsive and appear to be confused. A child often has no memory of the event.
Bedwetting
Children who are under the age of 5 often wet the bed. Bedwetting is considered a sleep disorder if your child is older than 5 years and has episodes at least twice a week. Some children may begin to wet the bed during periods of emotional distress.
Tips
Set a consistent bedtime for your child.
Develop a relaxing bedtime routine to help your child get ready for bed.
Don’t let your child drink sodas that have caffeine.
Keep the TV and other electronic devices out of your child’s bedroom.
Turn off the TV, computer and video games at least 1 hour before bedtime.
Next Steps
- Help your child develop healthy sleep habits.
- Create a relaxing sleep environment for your child.
- The doctor may schedule your child for a sleep study.
- Talk to your child’s doctor about any ongoing sleep problems.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT: CONTENT DEVELOPED BY THE AMERICAN ACADEMY OF SLEEP MEDICINE
QUESTIONS ABOUT A SLEEP ISSUE? LET’S TALK.
Imtiaz Ahmad, MD, MPH, FCCP
Dr. Imtiaz Ahmad is a highly qualified physician, Board Certified in Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine. He has been actively serving the community of Lee County, Florida since 2004, with a strong focus on a proactive healthcare approach. Dr. Ahmad has received advanced training from some of the most prestigious institutions, including Harvard University, Cornell University, State University of New York at Brooklyn, and the University of Mississippi. SOMNAS is a medical facility that is committed to improving and maintaining the health of patients with sleep disorders. The expert team at SOMNAS is known for their compassionate and high-quality care. They offer unparalleled treatment and care to patients on the Gulf Coast of Florida, ensuring a better and healthier life for them.
Job Title: Board Certified in Pulmonary Medicine
