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Gastrointestinal dysfunctions as a risk factor for sleep disorders in children with idiopathic autism spectrum

Lena M McCue1, Louise H Flick1, Kimberly A Twyman1

  • 1Saint Louis University, USA.

Autism : the International Journal of Research and Practice
|September 29, 2017
PubMed

Insights

Gastrointestinal dysfunctions significantly increase the likelihood of sleep disorders in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Addressing these gut issues may improve sleep and overall quality of life for children with ASD.

Area of Science:

  • Neurodevelopmental Disorders
  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Sleep Medicine

Background:

  • Sleep disorders are prevalent in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), worsening core symptoms and impacting quality of life.
  • Gastrointestinal (GI) dysfunctions are also common in ASD and may be linked to sleep disturbances.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between gastrointestinal dysfunctions and the prevalence of sleep disorders in children with idiopathic autism spectrum disorder.
  • To determine if GI issues increase the odds of experiencing sleep problems in this population.

Main Methods:

  • The study analyzed data from 610 children (aged 2-18 years) with idiopathic ASD from the Autism Genetic Resource Exchange.
  • Statistical analysis, including adjusted odds ratios, was used to assess the relationship between GI dysfunctions and sleep disorders.

Main Results:

  • Children with ASD and GI dysfunctions had 1.74 times higher odds of having a sleep disorder compared to those without GI issues.
  • Children with GI dysfunctions were also 1.75 times more likely to have multiple sleep disorder symptoms, even after adjusting for confounding factors.

Conclusions:

  • Gastrointestinal dysfunctions are associated with an increased risk of sleep disorders in children with autism spectrum disorder.
  • Early identification and management of GI problems in ASD may alleviate sleep disturbances and enhance developmental outcomes and quality of life.

Keywords:
autismgastrointestinal dysfunctionidiopathic autism spectrum disordermultiplex familiesseveritysleep disorder

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