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Common Sleep Disorders

The four most common sleep disorders are sleeplessness, arousal disorders, obstructive sleep apnea, and narcolepsy. The causes for these problems are sometimes genetic, sometimes a result of environmental factors, and sometimes are caused by a combination of the two. Some sleep disorders such as sleep talking and "night terrors" are often not serious. But others, such as obstructive sleep apnea, narcolepsy and sleepwalking, can be.

Sleeplessness

Problems of sleeplessness usually are characterized by a child's refusal to sleep as much, where, or when he should. Treatment usually consists of determining the cause of the problems and recommending various techniques which are tailored to the child and family.

Sleep Arousal Disorders

Sleepwalking, talking and night terrors are called "disorders of arousal" and are most common between the ages of 4 and 12 years. Although the child is up and moving, he is not mentally awake and is usually unaware of what he is doing. About 75 percent of sleep walkers injure themselves during these episodes. Education, reassurance and good sleep habits can help these problems, which usually get better with age. Medication is rarely needed.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Obstruction of the airways is more serious and can lead to snoring and sleep apnea (blocked breathing passages). Children with sleep apnea do not breathe properly during sleep and may no get enough oxygen. They may snore or have restless sleep followed by a breathless pause and then a snort or gasp. Sleep apnea can lead to heart failure, learning problems, and rarely, sudden death. Children at higher than average risk include those born with nose, face and mouth deformities, and those who have lung disease, cystic fibrosis, severe asthma, frequent infections of the tonsils and adenoids, or are extremely overweight. Treatments include surgery for removing the tonsils and adenoids, and/or a nose mask with air pressure.

Narcolepsy

Narcolepsy is a sleep disorder characterized by overwhelming sleepiness in which the child may fall asleep suddenly many times during the day. Other symptoms include fatigue, irritability, depression and reduced concentration, hallucinations just before or after sleep, and sudden loss of muscle control when emotions are strong. Children with narcolepsy may be perceived as lazy, resulting in problems with self-esteem. Treatment may include scheduled naps, medications and good sleep habits.