What causes sleep problems in children?
What causes sleep problems in children?
We all struggle to sleep sometimes and children are no exception. Sometimes sleep problems become chronic and a pattern of insomnia sets in. This can cause much frustration for children and their parents and can even result in relationship difficulties if the problem is not addressed. If you find yourself struggling to put your child to sleep night after night, then it is important to do something about it.
Here are some of the main causes of insomnia in children and babies:
- Teething
- Lack of routine and bedtime ritual
- Childhood depression or trauma
- Family problems
- Intestinal worms
- Diet high in sugar and stimulants like coffee and tea
How is Insomnia in Children Usually Treated?
As a parent, you will know that sleep remedies especially formulated for children are few and far between. In desperation many parents resort to using pain killers, cough medicines, antihistamines and other over the counter medicines. This is very bad for children and can seriously affect their health. These medicines have not been designed to use as sleep aids for children and regular use can result in addiction, nightmares and chronic insomnia.
Doctors sometimes prescribe scheduled drugs for children to help them sleep. Once again, these drugs can result in addiction and do not solve the problem in the long term. Side effects are common and children are often very drowsy in the morning.
