Does Your Child Have a Sleep Disorder?

“Thumping, giggling and headboard hitting the wall. No longer sounds of my college dorm, now just my kids not going to sleep.”

My kids are at their all time best when they are out cold. They aren’t asking me for anything, they aren’t fighting with each other, and I can stare at them and be reminded of all that is wonderful about them. But, for some kids, sleep is not so peaceful and not so restful. How do you know if your child suffers from a sleep disorder, which can affect everything from his mood to his health to his success in school?

According to Tracy Carbone, MD, Director of The Valley Hospital Pediatric Sleep Disorders and Apnea Center, signs that your child may have a sleep disorder include:

— snoring or noisy breathing at night
— problems breathing at night
— mouth breathing while awake
— excessive daytime sleepiness
— Irritability or hyperactivity during the day
— difficulties at school or with their peers

If you suspect your child has a sleep problem, consider a thorough physical evaluation and comprehensive sleep study.

Learn more about Valley’s Pediatric Sleep Disorders and Apnea Center.