Cerebral Palsy and Sleep

Richard_Scope

Cerebral Palsy and Sleeping Problems

Sleep problems in cerebral palsy are very common. In fact, children with cerebral palsy are five times more likely than children without cerebral palsy to have problems sleeping. Despite these numbers, there is a lack of information about how to best assess and treat insomnia in individuals with CP.

Whenever possible it’s critical to identify and address the source of sleep disturbances in children with cerebral palsy. Sleep deprivation may lead to difficulties with learning, behaviour and cognition. They also affect parents and their energy levels.

Top Reasons for Sleep Problems in CP

1. Pain and discomfort
2. Heartburn/Reflux
3. Breathing difficulties/sleep apnea
4. Not being able to change positions
5. Problems with sleep/wake cycles
6. Seizures
7. Abnormal sleep pattern movements
8. Psychological factors (i.e. missing parents and night)
9. Saliva aspiration (choking or breathing in their own spit)

Other Causes to Consider

• Positioning while sleeping
• Material of bedding (especially for those affected by sensory inputs)
• Noises
• Light (too much or not enough)
• Temperature (too hot, too cold)

Addressing Sleep Disturbances

• Speak to your child’s primary care doctor in order to determine what kind of referrals may be appropriate to determine the source of your child’s sleep problems.
• Establish respite care- Parents of children with ongoing sleep disturbances may consider using respite care to help relieve them of some of their overnight or daily caregiving responsibilities.
• Meet with a sleep specialist- like Scope's Sleep Right service or a doctor who diagnoses and helps to treat sleep disorders.

Alternative Solutions for Sleep

When looking for solutions to insomnia you will likely come across alternative solutions. These options should be discussed with your G.P., especially where supplements are concerned and if the person with cerebral palsy is taking medications.

• Melatonin (discuss with your G.P. regarding dosing)
• Weighted blankets
• Essential oils *check with your G.P. regarding the oils you are using. For example, some oils when applied directly to the skin can disrupt hormone function or cause skin irritation.
• Acupuncture

L_Volunteer

Hi @Richard_Scope

Thanks for sharing this information about cerebral palsy and sleep with us. I think it could be really useful and certainly really important. They say you learn something new every day! If anyone has any questions, please feel free to ask away 

forgoodnesssake

Wow do we know about sleep issues!  My son (24, athetoid CP) barely slept for the first year (yes, really) and then for the next 7 or 8 years needed all sorts of physical support, rocking, hip flexor release etc before he could actually drop off and stay asleep.  We did use melatonin for a while and then something else with a horrible taste (supposedly blackcurrent!) but eventually it wasn't needed and since about 9 years old has slept very well, phew!