Table of Contents

ABSTRACT

Abnormal sleep patterns and disorders can be seen in 25% to 30% of children with diverse effects on medical (including pulmonary) and mental health functioning. Sleep patterns vary over the course of a child’s life with further alterations into the adolescent years and adult years. The evaluation of sleep problems or disorders in children begins with a careful history of sleep patterns. This discussion of sleep issues in pediatric persons includes a look at sleep disorders classification, normal sleep patterns, circadian rhythms, and a review of common sleep disorders. These sleep disorders include behavioral insomnia, delayed sleep phase disorder (DSPD), nightmare disorder, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), disorder of sleep-related rhythmic movement (RMD), restless leg syndrome (RLS) and narcolepsy. Working with local experts, including those at a sleep study center can be helpful in the evaluation and management of children with abnormal sleep patterns and sleep disorders.

Keywords: Sleep, sleep patterns, sleep disorders, children, Qatar