Sleep is an essential part of a child’s growth and development. Proper sleep is essential for children to perform well in school, have a healthy immune system, and be physically active.

When a child is overly sleepy, it can lead to several problems, including poor academic performance, decreased energy, irritability, and even depression.

However, not all sleepiness is dangerous. For example, if your child experiences sleepiness after a long day of playing or running around, this is not a reason for concern.

However, if your child is sleepy all the time, there could be some underlying issues. So, when should you be worried and take steps for your child’s sleepiness? Let’s find out.

Sleep Disorders in Children

When a child falls asleep at inappropriate times or has difficulty sleeping, it could indicate a sleep disorder. There are various sleep disorders in children that could result in excessive sleepiness.

Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that affects the way children breathe at night. It happens when the airway is blocked, causing the child to stop breathing for a few seconds during sleep.

Symptoms of sleep apnea include snoring, choking or gasping, mouth breathing, daytime tiredness, and difficulty concentrating.

If you suspect your child may have sleep apnea, it’s essential to speak to their pediatrician, who will likely refer your child to a sleep specialist.

Narcolepsy

Narcolepsy is a neurological sleep disorder that occurs when the brain loses the ability to regulate sleep-wake cycles properly. It leads to sudden episodes of sleep in the daytime, which can last from a few seconds to several minutes.

Symptoms of narcolepsy include cataplexy (loss of muscle tone), hallucinations, sleep paralysis, and excessive daytime sleepiness.

If you suspect your child is experiencing narcolepsy, speak to their pediatrician, who will likely refer them to a sleep specialist to confirm the diagnosis.

Insomnia

Insomnia is a condition where individuals have trouble falling or staying asleep. Children with insomnia have difficulty sleeping at night, despite feeling sleepy during the day.

Symptoms of insomnia include difficulty falling asleep, waking up frequently during the night, waking up too early, and difficulty concentrating during the day.

Related Article Is my child’s sleepiness cause for concern?

If you suspect your child is experiencing insomnia, speak to their pediatrician.

They will likely take a detailed medical history and recommend changes to their sleep habits, including reducing screen time before bedtime and creating a sleep-friendly environment in their bedroom. In some cases, medications may be necessary.

Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS)

Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) is a condition that causes uncomfortable sensations in the legs, leading to an uncontrollable urge to move them.

The condition is common in children and often gets worse in the evening and bedtime, leading to difficulty falling asleep. Symptoms of RLS include an itchy or crawling sensation in the legs, jerking or twitching of the legs, and experiencing the symptoms only when at rest.

If you believe your child is experiencing RLS, speak to their pediatrician. They will likely take a medical history and recommend lifestyle changes that may help, including reducing caffeine and screen time before bedtime.

When to Be Concerned About Your Child’s Sleepiness

If you notice that your child’s sleepiness is persistent and not improving even with lifestyle changes, then it’s time to take action.

In such a case, speak to your child’s pediatrician and, if necessary, ask for a referral to a sleep specialist.

Additionally, you should also be concerned when your child’s sleepiness starts to interfere with their daily activities, such as school and sports.

Poor academic performance, less physical activity clearly indicates that your child needs to see a doctor and make lifestyle changes, including developing healthy sleeping habits.

It’s essential to remember that not all sleep problems are serious, but it’s always good to seek medical advice when you suspect your child has a sleep disorder.

Doing so will help prevent complications that can result in severe consequences.

Conclusion

Good quality sleep is vital for children’s health and development, and it’s essential to recognize when to be worried when your child is experiencing sleepiness.

Sleeping disorders range from mild to severe, and if left untreated, they interfere with your child’s daily life activities.