Home Medicine Sleep disorders in children with developmental delay
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Sleep disorders in children with developmental delay

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Published/Copyright: September 13, 2013

Abstract

Developmental disorders in children are common. Associated demanding co-morbidities that include sleep problems are prevalent in this group. In turn, these are linked to daytime performance issues, reduced developmental and academic growth, and considerable familial psychopathology. Behavioral modification measures are and should be the first line approach to management. Medications for sleep disorders have an important role in addition to behavioral modification therapy. This literature review looks into the occurrence and severity of sleep problems in children with developmental disorders. The probable advantages of using medications, mainly focusing on the neurohormone melatonin (a sleep inducer), are also explored.


Corresponding author: Oneza Ahmareen, Midland Regional Hospital – Pediatrics, Mullingar, Westmeath, Ireland, E-mail:

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Received: 2013-05-13
Accepted: 2013-06-16
Published Online: 2013-09-13
Published in Print: 2014-02-01

©2014 by Walter de Gruyter Berlin Boston

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