[Features of the organization of sleep in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder]

T P Kalashnikova1, G V Anisimov2

  • 1Wagner Perm State Medical University, Perm, Russia.

Insights

Children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) often experience sleep disturbances, including difficulty falling asleep and restless sleep. These sleep issues are linked to ADHD

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Sleep Medicine
  • Neurodevelopmental Disorders

Background:

  • Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is frequently associated with sleep problems in children.
  • Understanding the intricate relationship between sleep architecture and ADHD pathophysiology is crucial for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore current insights into sleep characteristics in children with ADHD.
  • To examine the links between sleep disturbances, executive functions, and social maladjustment in ADHD.
  • To discuss potential therapeutic strategies for sleep disorders in ADHD.

Main Methods:

  • Review of modern clinical and research findings on sleep in ADHD.
  • Analysis of sleep macrostructure, cyclic organization, and polysomnography data.
  • Investigation of potential pathogenetic mechanisms involving neurotransmitters, circadian rhythms, and iron metabolism.

Main Results:

  • Children with ADHD exhibit sleep onset difficulties, increased motor activity during sleep, daytime sleepiness, and associations with Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) and Periodic Leg Movement Syndrome (PLMS).
  • Circadian desynchrony and altered REM sleep proportion are implicated in ADHD pathogenesis.
  • Metabolic disturbances (melatonin, dopamine, serotonin, iron, ferritin) and social jet lag may contribute to comorbid sleep issues and ADHD.

Conclusions:

  • Sleep disturbances are a significant feature of ADHD, impacting executive functions and social adjustment.
  • Common pathogenetic pathways link sleep disorders and ADHD, involving circadian rhythm disruption and neurochemical imbalances.
  • Addressing sleep problems may offer a viable strategy for managing ADHD symptoms.

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