Study (2020): Survey on sleep problems in children with CHARGE syndrome
Sleep problems are common in children, especially in children with developmental disorders, visual impairments, and behavioral issues. Previous research has shown that the prevalence of clinically relevant sleep problems is particularly high in children with CHARGE syndrome, who often exhibit all three of these characteristics. CHARGE syndrome refers to a genetic defect affecting various organs.
To obtain additional information about the nature of these sleep problems and how they are most commonly treated by parents, an exploratory survey was conducted with 30 parents of children with CHARGE syndrome and comorbid sleep problems. The Children's Sleep Habits Questionnaire as well as demographic and sleep questionnaires developed for this study were used.
The results of the study showed that problems with sleep onset and maintenance were most frequently reported, consistent with previous research. Parents most often cited the following factors as likely contributing to the sleep problems: difficulties with self-regulation, teeth grinding, hormonal imbalance, problem behavior, and anxiety. The most commonly used treatment methods were positive bedtime routines, melatonin, the use of a weighted blanket, and prescription medications. While parents overall reported that they found all three intervention strategies to be somewhat effective in improving their child's sleep problem, the use of positive sleep routines and melatonin treatment were perceived by parents as more effective. These findings assist professionals in selecting future research and intervention strategies to recommend to parents of children with CHARGE syndrome.
Source:
Kennert, B. A., Harshorne, T. S., Kanouse, S., & Johnson, C. (2020). Parent survey of sleep problems among children with CHARGE syndrome. Research in developmental disabilities, 101, 103614. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ridd.2020.103614