During rest, the brain has time to generate neurons and recover brain plasticity. The body then can make new connections between neurotransmitters in the cerebrum.
Babies who suffered a birth injury may have difficulty with sleep as well as other functions, depending on the location of damage. In some cases, there was a lack of oxygen to the area where neurotransmitters are located. Oxygen deprivation causes brain cells to die and therefore can interrupt the functions that are controlled by that area of the brain. Infants could have difficulty falling or staying asleep. They could wake frequently and have trouble getting into deep REM rest.
Melatonin Production
Melatonin is a hormone produced by the body and necessary for rest. It provides the body the ability to regulate rest and keeps people from waking up too soon. A study that was published in
Neurology the scientific journal from the American Academy of Neurology provides some interesting information about sleep and patients with brain injuries.
The study that found people with brain injuries had less melatonin and slept fewer hours than those who had the correct supply. Brain injury patients did not create enough of the substance to regulate their body’s circadian rhythm. The lack of the substance means that babies and others with reduced melatonin will likely have difficulty with regulating their bedtimes and quality of rest.
Sleep Problems in Children
Babies and children might be prone to sleep problems if they suffered a birth injury that impacted their brain. Kids may find it hard to get to bed and stay asleep through the night. They could have trouble staying awake in the daytime and may have problems concentrating or focusing. Some children might experience bouts of sleepwalking or nightmares.
Problems with sleeping are not uncommon, and many children have difficulties, even some who have not suffered an injury. It is important to determine whether the child is having a singular episode or could be suffering from a sleep disorder. Children who have a disorder are less likely to overcome it unless it’s properly diagnosed and treated. The cause of the problem needs to be discovered.
Children who do not get enough rest are more apt to have difficulties in school. They could also have other issues that stem from a lack of rest. Additionally, the body could be under more stress, and therefore the baby could be prone to illnesses.
Babies who exhibit signs of sleep difficulties should undergo testing and diagnosis so proper treatment can be provided. Those with known brain damage should have an MRI done to see whether their brain has changed over time. In some cases, medication will be helpful in helping kids achieve their natural circadian rhythm. Unfortunately, some of these children may suffer from sleep disorders for the rest of their lives.
