Sleep Disorder Diagnosis
Definition of Sleep Disorders
Sleep disorders are very common and around 40% of children at some point suffer from them. They are also more prevalent in children with ADHD, learning difficulties or chronic paediatric illnesses.
Signs and Symptoms of Sleep Disorders
There are many causes of sleep disorders, it’s important to find the cause in order to treat the disorder.
There are 3 types of sleep disorders:
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Not sleeping enough (sleeplessness or insomnia)
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Sleeping too much (excessive sleepiness or hypersomnia)
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Episodic disturbances of behaviour related to sleep such as night terrors, sleep-talking, sleepwalking and nocturnal enuresis.
Treatment of Sleep Disorders
Treatment for sleep disorders can vary depending on the cause. In some cases medication may be required if it is related to airways constraints, occasionally melatonin may be prescribed to promote sleep but more commonly talking therapy is applied.
Our Sleep Disorders Pathway
An assessment will be required and possibly 30 minute review appointments depending on your child's condition.
There are a wide range of potential investigations that children and young people with sleep disorders may require. These include blood tests, and specific sleep investigations.
However, investigations are not required in every case, and often a good clinical history is adequate.
If further tests are required Professor Paul Gringras will outline the evidence base for the investigation, time scale and costs.
There are usually a range of options (eg sleep investigations in a hospital bed or in the young person’s home) and he will outline the pros and cons of each option.