Suggest Remedies For Sleeping Issues In A Child With Autism

Posted on Mon, 4 Jan 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 4 Jan 2016 Answered on

Mon, 1 Feb 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi,

My dauther is 3.6 Years and she has been dignosed with Autism. She has sleep distubances. Please advice how can we fix the sleeping problem. We have also Noticed she has digetion issues.

Thanks,
XXXX

Answered by Dr. Arun (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Needs avoiding stimulation

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thanks for writing to us.
Generally children with autism do have sleep issues.
This could be due to abnormal melatonin secretion, or associated causes like gastroesphageal reflux, sleep terrors etc.
Try avoiding stimulation before sleep, example avoid gadgets, TV before bedtime.
Warm bath before bed and reading out books and stories should help.
Check with your doctor if she has any reflux which can be treated with medicines like domperidone.
Avoid heavy meals at night to help in digestion.
Avoid high carbohydrates at night.
Wishing your daughter speedy recovery.
Regards
Dr Arun

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar