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Re: 5-year old not sleeping, affecting school

Posted by spot on September 09, 2002 at 06:31:55:

In Reply to: 5-year old not sleeping, affecting school posted by wendy on September 07, 2002 at 15:24:39:

Stand up to the doctor. Read the post before yours - it doesn't necessarily apply, except for the effects of sleep deprivation. Since you've been to the doctor's several times, tell him you want her refered to a pediatric sleep specialist to rule out any other medical causes that either a) interfer with her sleep/cause symptoms, etc or b) have caused anxieties or fears related to sleeping. You can assure him you have been diligent in sleep hygiene for her and since it's affecting her ability to function during the day and her schooling, let him know that you want medical causes ruled out. Keep a log and enlist the teacher if possible. Go in armed with evidence, and be aware that many doctors are not completely aware of the effects of sleep problems on children.

He's right that often these difficulties are sleep hygiene or behavioural, but given the length of time this has gone on and the overal difficultly she has during the day, it's worth looking at. There is also Circadian Rhythm Disorder and I would suggest taking a look at that. Treatment is usually with Melatonin for a short course to help reset her clock. This way she is able to sleep more timely, and is not being woken for school at what is essentially 4 in the morning for her - if that is what's going on. Your doctor should be willing to discuss things openly with you, do some reading so you understand the processes/treatments/etc that you want to discuss with him.
good luck

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Archived Children's Sleep Forum4 viewing only. To post a new topic go to the Children's Sleep Forum Homepage.
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  • Sleep Deprivation due to Sleep Apnea and insufficient sleep are common and can present as insomnia, narcolepsy, or idiopathic hypersomnia. In infants and children sleep problems commonly present themselves as ADD or ADHD.


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