Clinician's Guide to Pediatric Sleep Disorders

Sleep disorders can seriously affect a child's health, and this authoritative guide provides an overview of methods to identify, diagnose, and treat them. It covers the latest research, medical and surgical management, high-risk groups, psychosocial effects, and examination of sleep study results.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 18 December 2020
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Sleep disorders, affecting 20 to 30% of children under the age of five, can seriously impact a child's health. This comprehensive guide provides an in-depth exploration of the consequences of sleep disordered breathing and offers a state-of-the-art overview of methods to identify, diagnose, and treat sleep disorders in children. Spanning the latest research related to the medical and surgical management of disease, high-risk groups, psychosocial effects, and the examination of sleep study results, this invaluable source aids practitioners in gaining a deeper understanding of normal sleep patterns, recognizing common sleep conditions, and implementing appropriate care protocols to ensure optimal patient health.

Understanding the impact of sleep disorders on children is crucial, as they can have profound effects on their overall well-being. Sleep disorders can range from mild to severe and can manifest in various ways, including difficulty falling asleep, snoring, restless sleep, and sleep apnea. These conditions can disrupt a child's sleep patterns, leading to fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating during the day. In severe cases, sleep disorders can contribute to chronic health problems such as obesity, heart disease, and diabetes.

Identifying sleep disorders in children is essential for timely treatment and management. Pediatricians and other healthcare professionals use a variety of diagnostic tools, including sleep studies, to evaluate a child's sleep patterns and identify any underlying conditions. These studies can help determine the severity of the disorder, the underlying cause, and the most appropriate treatment options. Treatment for sleep disorders typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes, medication, and, in some cases, surgical intervention.

Lifestyle changes, such as establishing a regular sleep schedule, creating a comfortable sleep environment, and avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bedtime, can help improve sleep quality and reduce the symptoms of sleep disorders. Medication, such as sleep aids or antidepressants, may be prescribed to treat underlying conditions such as anxiety or depression that can contribute to sleep problems. In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to treat conditions such as sleep apnea or enlarged tonsils that interfere with breathing during sleep.

It is important to note that sleep disorders can affect children of all ages, but they are more common in infants and toddlers. Children with developmental disabilities, such as autism or ADHD, may also be at higher risk of sleep disorders. Parents and caregivers should be aware of the signs and symptoms of sleep disorders in their children and seek medical attention if they suspect that their child may be experiencing a problem.

In conclusion, sleep disorders can have a significant impact on a child's health and well-being. By understanding the consequences of sleep disordered breathing and implementing appropriate diagnostic and treatment strategies, healthcare professionals can help children overcome these conditions and lead healthy, productive lives.

Weight: 536g
Dimension: 152 x 227 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367453473