Sleep problems in the child with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder: defining aetiology and appropriate

Margaret D Weiss1, Jay Salpekar

  • 1Children's and Women's Health Centre of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. mweiss@cw.bc.ca

CNS Drugs
|September 16, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) often face sleep issues like delayed sleep onset and daytime sleepiness. Addressing these sleep problems may help improve ADHD symptoms and overall well-being.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Sleep Medicine

Background:

  • Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects 25-50% of children and adolescents, frequently accompanied by sleep disturbances.
  • Common sleep issues include delayed sleep onset, bedtime resistance, morning grogginess, and daytime sleepiness.
  • Elevated rates of restless legs syndrome, periodic limb movement disorder, and sleep-disordered breathing are noted in pediatric ADHD populations.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the prevalence and nature of sleep problems in children and adolescents with ADHD.
  • To explore the relationship between ADHD, sleep disturbances, and potential contributing factors like medication.
  • To discuss assessment methods and potential interventions for sleep issues in pediatric ADHD.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review and synthesis of existing research on ADHD and sleep disorders in pediatric populations.
  • Analysis of common sleep problems and associated conditions reported in children with ADHD.
  • Examination of assessment tools and therapeutic strategies for managing sleep disturbances.

Main Results:

  • Significant overlap exists between ADHD and various sleep disorders in children and adolescents.
  • Medications for ADHD or comorbid conditions can contribute to sleep disturbances.
  • Sleep problems may worsen ADHD symptoms, while sleep interventions might alleviate irritability.

Conclusions:

  • Sleep disturbances are prevalent in pediatric ADHD and can exacerbate core symptoms.
  • Assessment tools like questionnaires and sleep diaries are crucial for evaluating sleep issues.
  • Targeted interventions for sleep problems, including behavioral and pharmacological approaches, show potential for improving ADHD-related symptoms.

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