Sleep disorders in children interfere with their growth and development and adversely affect family life, states a recent issue of the Journal of American Medical Association, reporting abstracts from the Fourth Annual Paediatric Sleep Medicine conference at Brown University, Providence.

In some children the period between waking and sleep is not demarcated. The child sits up or sleep walks. Some call out, moan or cry. Others have nightmares with sustained shrieking. Such episodes can last from one minute to 30 minutes. Such children are not fully conscious even when they have their eyes open. The following day they do not remember what happened the previous night.

The reasons for such awakening events can be obstructive sleep apnea, restless legs syndrome, limb movement disorder, insufficient sleep and psychological stress. There is usually a family history of awakening disorders that can trigger such patterns.

The episode commonly occurs 60 to 90 minutes after the child has fallen asleep. This is the period when deep sleep is transitioning to light sleep. Parents should ensure safety for sleep walkers to prevent them from falling down or getting hurt. Sufficient sleep and regular sleep and awakening schedules are extremely necessary. Children need instructions on relaxation, mental imagination and biofeedback. Drugs should be prescribed after due consideration.

Obstructive sleep apnea can cause tooth grinding, also called Bruxism. This occurs due to sleep instability. In this brief period, the blood pressure and pulse rates boost and the brain awakens. There can be excessive jaw clenching or muscle contractions. Some children get relieved after adenoidectomy or tonsillectomy. Children with Bruxism should avoid excess activity in the evening, excitatory foods and drinks and should be taught to relax

The prevention of sleep disorders in children has still not been mastered. A lot more has to be done.