Sleep disorders among children are common and include difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep or waking up. Children often display their disorders differently than adults. For example, pediatric patients tend to snore but not show outward signs of apnea. They are likely to exhibit hyperkinetic behavior during the day that can mimic ADHD. They have a harder time waking up in the morning and experience problems with school work. Because a child’s first few years of school set the pace for academics over the long term, early diagnosis of pediatric sleep disorders is important.
Sleep studies help determine diagnosis. Treatments range from behavioral adjustments to surgery, such as a tonsillectomy. Children with severe obstructive sleep apnea may need upper airway support like CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) prior to surgery.