SLEEP IN CHILDREN: FROM PHYSIOLOGY TO PATHOLOGY

Abstract

Circadian rhythms and the mechanisms of sleep and wakefulness begin to form in the embryonic period and undergo many stages of development before acquire characteristics typical for an adult. Structure of sleep disturbances in children also differs from that in the adult population. Most sleep disorders in children are the result of immaturity of certain brain structures and mechanisms: primary sleep disorders, pediatric behavioral insomnia, sleepwalking, night terrors, enuresis. These disorders are benign, and usually disappear by adulthood. Treatment of benign sleep disorders in children should primarily be based on the methods of behavioral therapy, the rules of sleep hygiene and the purpose of light sedation.

Keywords

• sleep
• circadian rhythms
• insomnia
• sleep apnea
• pediatric behavioral insomnia
• parasomnias
• behavioral therapy
• and pharmacotherapy.