Pediatrics Sleep Medicine

What sleep problems affect children and teens?

Sleep patterns naturally change as children grow. However, frequent sleep disruption may point to a concern that needs medical attention.

Common pediatric sleep problems include:

• Trouble falling asleep
• Frequent nighttime waking
• Bedtime resistance
• Loud or regular snoring
• Restless or uncomfortable sleep
• Nightmares or night terrors
• Sleepwalking
• Excessive daytime sleepiness

Some children don’t appear sleepy when they lack rest. Instead, they become irritable, emotional, impulsive, or unusually active. Poor sleep may also contribute to headaches, difficulty concentrating, falling grades, and problems getting up for school.

How does pediatric sleep medicine evaluate sleep concerns in children and teens?

Dr. Espinoza begins with a discussion about anything that could be affecting your child’s ability to sleep, such as:

• Your child’s usual sleep schedule
• Their bedtime routine
• Nighttime behavior
• Breathing
• Naps
• Daytime symptoms
• Caffeine
• Stress
• Medications
• Medical conditions
• Changes at home or school

You might find it helpful to keep a sleep diary before the appointment. Record when your child goes to bed, how long it takes to fall asleep, nighttime awakenings, wake-up times, naps, and unusual behavior.

Depending on the symptoms, Dr. Espinoza may examine your child’s nose, throat, breathing, growth, and general health. He can recommend further testing or refer your child for a home sleep study or specialist assessment when necessary.

Why should parents take snoring seriously?

Occasional snoring during a cold may not cause concern. However, frequent loud snoring, gasping, choking sounds, breathing pauses, restless sleep, or sleeping in an unusual position may indicate obstructive sleep apnea.

Children with sleep apnea may experience:

• Morning headaches
• Bed-wetting
• Attention problems
• Hyperactivity
• Poor school performance

An evaluation can determine whether enlarged tonsils, nasal congestion, weight, facial structure, or another factor is affecting nighttime breathing.

What treatments are available in pediatric sleep medicine?

Pediatric sleep medicine treatments depend on the child’s age and the cause of the problem. Dr. Espinoza will likely recommend improved sleep practices, including a consistent bedtime and wake time, a calming nighttime routine, less evening screen exposure, changes to naps, and reduced caffeine intake.

Treatment may also address allergies, pain, anxiety, medication effects, or other medical concerns. Parents should always speak with a medical provider before giving a child melatonin or another sleep aid.

Call RestoraMed Healthcare to arrange a pediatric sleep medicine evaluation or request an appointment online today.