Sleep disorders and sleep problems in childhood

Sleep problems are common in childhood. A distinction is made between probl ems in which polysomnography is abnormal (i.e,, the parasomnias. sleep apne a and narcolepsy) and problems that are behavioral in origin and have norma l polysomnography. The parasomnias-sleep terrors, somnambulism and enuresis -appear to be related to central nervous system immaturity and are often ou tgrown. Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is frequently missed in chi ldren and can often be cured through surgery. Behavioral sleep problems may be overcome after parents make interventions. Physicians can be of great a ssistance to these families by recommending techniques to parents that have been shown to be effective.