When should I worry about my child's sleep?

Sleep problems can impact children in unique ways

Children are unable to communicate about their sleep concerns, but certain signs may be worth further investigation. 

Consider getting your child’s sleep evaluated if during sleep he or she:

• Snores very regularly
• Is restless 
• Stops breathing or gasps for air
• Snorts, coughs or chokes
• Has night sweats
• Experiences night terrors or sleepwalks
• Begins to wet the bed after potty training

Sleep struggles aren’t always apparent in the overnight hours, they can impact children in unique ways.  Disrupted slumber most often causes attention or behavior concerns in young people. Interrupted sleep can also cause: 

• Daytime sleepiness
• Moodiness
• Early morning sore throat, dry mouth or headache
• Depression 
• Weight gain

According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, up to 10 percent of children may suffer from pediatric obstructive sleep apnea. The condition causes all or part of the airway to become blocked during sleep, impacting the necessary 8 to 13 hours of restorative sleep that children require. It can cause growth, development and behavioral issues in children. 

Adult sleep apnea is most often caused by obesity, however for children, oversized tonsils and adenoids are oftentimes to blame. 

Does my child need a sleep study?

If your child exhibits any of these symptoms, talk to your pediatrician. He or she may qualify for a pediatric sleep study, as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. During this study all your child has to do is sleep. At The Sleep Center at Elizabeth City, parents can sleep in the same bed as their child while our certified team monitors their sleep. If sleep apnea, or other sleep disturbances are discovered, we can offer options to help your child sleep better.