True sleep disorders in children are RARE - most sleep problems are behavioral! If your bachcha raat ko jagta hai or has trouble falling asleep, it's usually NOT a disorder. However, conditions like sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, and sleepwalking do exist and are very treatable. This guide helps you distinguish between normal sleep issues and actual disorders.
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Important distinction:
| Normal Sleep Issues | Actual Sleep Disorders |
|---|---|
| Night waking for feeding/comfort | Breathing pauses during sleep |
| Difficulty falling asleep | Loud snoring every night |
| Bedtime resistance | Involuntary leg movements |
| Sleep associations (needs to be held) | Sleepwalking regularly |
| Occasional nightmares | Night terrors every night |
Most children have sleep ISSUES, not DISORDERS!
What it is: Breathing repeatedly stops during sleep due to blocked airway.
Signs:
Common cause: Enlarged tonsils/adenoids (very common in Indian children)
Treatment: Often adenoid/tonsil removal - highly effective!
What it is: Uncomfortable leg sensations causing urge to move.
Signs:
Treatment: Check iron levels, lifestyle changes, sometimes medication
What it is: Walking or doing activities while asleep.
Signs:
Age: Most common 4-8 years, usually outgrown by teens
| Feature | Night Terrors | Nightmares |
|---|---|---|
| When | 1-2 hours after sleeping | Later in night |
| Behavior | Screaming, inconsolable | Wakes up scared |
| Memory | Doesn't remember | Remembers dream |
| Eyes | Open but not seeing | Alert |
| Your response | Wait it out, keep safe | Comfort and reassure |
Usually harmless! Common in children, no treatment needed unless associated with other problems.
See doctor urgently if:
Schedule appointment if:
NOT concerning:
Bedtime Routine (Sone Ki Aadat):
Sleep Hygiene:
For suspected sleep apnea:
For sleepwalking:
For night terrors:
For restless legs:
| Disorder | Treatment |
|---|---|
| Sleep Apnea | Adenoid/tonsil surgery (often), CPAP (sometimes) |
| Restless Legs | Iron if deficient, lifestyle changes, medication if severe |
| Sleepwalking | Usually outgrown; safety measures; scheduled awakening |
| Night Terrors | Usually outgrown; address triggers |
| Nightmares | Reassurance; address anxiety if frequent |
Note: Most sleep problems don't need medication!
A: Occasional light snoring can be normal, but LOUD snoring every night is NOT normal in children! It often indicates enlarged tonsils/adenoids or sleep apnea. Watch for: breathing pauses, gasping, mouth breathing, daytime tiredness. If these are present, see an ENT specialist - many children benefit greatly from adenoid/tonsil surgery.
A: This sounds like night terrors - different from nightmares. During night terrors, children scream and thrash but are NOT awake and won't remember it. Don't try to wake them - stay nearby for safety. Most children outgrow them by age 12. If happening every night or causing injury, consult a pediatrician.
A: Sleepwalking is common in ages 4-8 and usually harmless if environment is safe. Focus on safety: gates on stairs, lock doors, remove hazards. Don't wake the child - gently guide back to bed. Most children outgrow it. If frequent or dangerous activities involved, consult a sleep specialist.
A: Probably NOT a sleep disorder! Most night crying is due to: sleep associations (needs help to sleep), hunger, discomfort, developmental phases, or schedule issues. Try: consistent bedtime routine, putting down drowsy but awake, and addressing any physical causes. True sleep disorders have specific signs like snoring, breathing issues, or involuntary movements.
A: Sleep medications are rarely needed for children. Most sleep issues resolve with: consistent routine, good sleep hygiene, addressing underlying causes. If doctor recommends melatonin, use only under guidance. NEVER give adult sleep medications to children. Focus on finding root cause rather than medication.
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This article was reviewed by a pediatrician. Last updated: January 2025
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