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Sleep in Children and Adolescents with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder— Early Screening from 0 to 5 years-old

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
Little boy and girl playing

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Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder is a common psychiatric disorder characterized by the presence of recurrent intrusive thoughts or images (obsessions) that are irrational and/or excessive. They can also manifest as behavioral rituals (compulsions) that help reduce anxiety. Together, these symptoms can cause distress and can significantly decrease quality of life and impact the individual’s everyday life. OCD can be seen in children as young as 4 or 5. Disruption to the sleep-wake cycle can be a result of OCD.

Sleep problems have been found to be more common in girls and younger children with more severe forms of OCD. Sleep plays an important role in early growth and development. The disruption of sleep cycles at an early age, negatively affects the child’s growth pattern.

Symptoms of OCD in children:

  • Recurrent and persistent thoughts, urges, or images
  • Repetitive behaviors they feel the urge to perform because of an obsession or specific rules they must follow rigidly
  • The acts performed reduce their anxiety or destress

Symptoms affecting sleep:

  • Specific nighttime routines or compulsive rituals

l before bed

  • Delaying bedtime
  • Disruptive sleep
  • Behavioral problems
  • Tiredness during the day

Treatment is best completed at an early age. Dr. Calkins as craniofacial orthopedist and orthodontist,  can examine the patient as early as 2 or 3 years old. Sleep disorders could be related to a poor function of the respiratory system. The craniofacial-respiratory system assessment and treatment can start as early as 2 years old.  For more information about treatment and scheduling a visit, click the links below:

https://sunrise-orthodontics.com/

https://airwayandsleepgroup.com/

Sleep in Children and Adolescents with OCD

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