PERIODIC LIMB MOVEMENT DISORDER IN CHILDREN

Sometimes stemming from Williams Syndrome, periodic limb movement disorder in children is a relatively rare occurrence
. This illness also goes in hand with ADD and ADHD. When a child has a hyperactivity disorder, sometimes an rem sleep behavior disorder can develop. Children that toss and turn at night do not necessarily have periodic limb movement disorder. Instead, polysomnography, or a sleep study will need to be performed to establish the real cause.

Generally, children should not take herbal sleep aids unless their pediatricians first approve them. While the dosing instructions may differ, prescription medications can be taken to help get kids into a deeper state of sleep for longer periods of time. Periodic limb movement disorder may occur when a person is in a lighter sleep state, also referred to as the dream state.

There are not too many periodic limb movement disorder treatment options available for children that do not involve medication. Because children with ADHD and ADD usually take medication to keep them calm, doctors must be careful about any additional drugs that they prescribe. In addition, herbal remedies for anxiety may not always be safe for kids. Chamomile tea has relaxing qualities that are safe for people of nearly all ages and meditation has been shown to help many people unwind at the end of the day.

Consider taking your child to a sleep specialist if periodic limb movement disorder is disrupting your lives. If your child’s symptoms are mild enough, your doctor may suggest that your child will simply outgrow this disorder as time goes on. However, if your child is waking up with bruises or constantly wakes up through the night, further action may need to be taken.

All people occasionally move their arms and legs during particularly disturbing or realistic dreams, but this should not happen on a regular basis. Sleep is a time for rest, which is why you generally expect to lie still. Even with sleep aids, remember that your child could wake up feeling tired, groggy or be disengaged during the day. Weight the pros and cons of medications for sleep and decide whether or not it is better to see if the situation improves on its own.