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Many small children, especially those up to 2 years of age, have the problem of waking up repeatedly at night. This is a common problem that most parents experience. Children may wake up suddenly at night, cry or try to get their parents’ attention. This often becomes a sleep pattern and can affect the child’s energy and mood during the day. However, waking up frequently is not always a sign of any serious disease, but sometimes some serious symptoms can also be seen, which can be the cause of some disease. Let us know about this.
Some other common symptoms may also be seen in children who wake up repeatedly at night. These include irritability during the day, sleep disturbance, loss of appetite, frequent crying and feeling tired or lethargic during the day. Some children may also experience difficulty breathing, sweating or waking up suddenly due to fear during the night. It is very important to understand these signs because they may indicate that the child is not getting enough sleep or needs rest.
Is it normal or a problem for a small child to wake up repeatedly at night?
Dr. Himanshu Bhadani in the Pediatric Department of Delhi AIIMS. Explains that frequent waking up at night is often considered normal in young children, especially for the first two years. At this age their sleep cycle is still developing, and sleep is not completely stable. Some babies fall asleep on their own, while others require a parent’s presence or attention.
However, if waking up is accompanied by unusual crying, difficulty breathing, looking constantly unwell, or lack of sleep, it may be a sign of a health or sleep problem. Parents should understand whether the child’s frequent waking up is just a part of normal development or it requires medical advice.
keep these things in mind
Put the child to sleep on a regular sleep schedule.
Ensure a quiet and dark sleeping environment.
Give dinner and milk on time and do not feed heavy food before sleep.
If the child wakes up frequently or looks unwell, consult a doctor.
Keep the child’s sleeping habits and routine regular, so that the sleep pattern becomes strong.