[Sleep disorders in children and adolescents].
BACKGROUND
Pediatric sleep is a rapidly developing area, and understanding of sleep disorders in children and adolescents is improving. The article aims to present new knowledge to Norwegian physicians.


METHODS
The article is based on review articles and clinical guidelines identified through non-systematic searches in PubMed, limited to the period 2007-2009.


RESULTS
Primary and secondary sleep disorders in children and adolescents are common, but underdiagnosed. Sleep disorders may occur as early as infancy and the clinical presentation often differs from that in adults. These disorders may have serious consequences in the short and long run. Information about sleep and circadian rhythm, positive routines and good sleep hygiene may prevent sleep disorders and form natural constituents of treatment of all such disorders in youngsters. A non-pharmacological approach with cognitive behavioural interventions is the most important treatment of insomnia. Randomized studies and guidelines for pharmacological therapy are needed.


CONCLUSIONS
Sleep disorders in children and adolescents demand special knowledge and attention. Norway needs an increase in capacity and competent experts to evaluate sleep disorders in children and adolescents.
Sørensen
Eli
E
Psykisk helsevern for barn og ungdom og Nasjonalt kompetansesenter for søvnsykdommer, Haukeland universitetssykehus, 5021 Bergen, Norway. eli.sorensen@helse-bergen.no
D000293:Adolescent; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D002983:Clinical Competence; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic; D012890:Sleep / Q000502:physiology; D012893:Sleep Wake Disorders / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy