Pediatria pre prax 5/2006

SLEEP DISORDERS IN PEDIATRIC PRACTICE

Sleep disorders occur in 30 % of children and adolescents. Disorders connected with insufficient or disturbed sleep (insomnia, sleepdisordered breathing, periodic limb movement disorder) cause significant cognitive impairment, behavioral problems, mood and emotional changes. Obstructive sleep apnea can result in failure to thrive, growth retardation and cardiovascular morbidity. Chronic diseases with prominent hypersomnia (narcolepsy, idiopatic hypersomnia) frequently begin in childhood. An overview of the most important sleep disorders is presented.

Keywords: sleep disorders, cognitive dysfunction, insomnia, sleep-disordered breathing, hypersomnia.