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Sleep Disorders in Children

Sleep disorders are an important health issue affecting the child's development, behavior, and the entire family's quality of life.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Sleep Disorders in Children?

Childhood sleep disorders are one of the most common reasons parents present to pediatric outpatient clinics. In infants, problems related to sleep consolidation and learning to fall asleep independently come to the fore; in preschool children, sleep resistance and fears; in school-age children, snoring and sleep apnea.

Pediatric obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) may present differently from adults due to enlarged tonsils and adenoids, and can lead to attention difficulties, hyperactivity, and growth failure.

Screen time, irregular sleep timing, and anxiety disorders are important environmental factors triggering sleep problems.

Symptoms

Difficulty falling asleep and frequent awakening
Waking up at night and insisting on sleeping in the same bed as parents
Snoring, breathing pauses, or mouth breathing (OSAS)
Daytime sleepiness and concentration difficulties
Nightmares and night terrors (pavor nocturnus)
Sleepwalking or sleep talking

Risk Factors

Irregular sleep routine
Screen use before bedtime
Anxiety or stressful life events
Enlarged tonsils and adenoids (OSAS)
Obesity (increases risk of OSAS)
Comorbid ADHD or autism spectrum disorder

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • If snoring is observed every night and breathing pauses are noted
  • If excessive daytime sleepiness or attention problems coincide with sleep disturbance
  • If sleep problems do not respond to 2-4 weeks of sleep hygiene measures
  • If night terrors or sleepwalking frequently pose injury risk

Treatment Methods

01
Sleep hygiene: consistent sleep-wake times, dark and cool room, ritual establishment
02
Screen ban: turning off all screens 1 hour before bed
03
Behavioral methods: gradual extinction or controlled crying (Ferber)
04
Adenotonsillectomy in OSAS: most effective treatment
05
Psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy if needed in anxiety disorder
06
Melatonin: for adjustment problems in ADHD and autism spectrum disorder (with physician recommendation)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.