“Sleep is the golden chain that ties health and life together.” – Thomas Dekker

Who doesn’t know Winnie the Pooh?

We all know Pooh loves his naps, often indulging in one right after a delicious honey feast.

Naps are known to be quite beneficial; however, what if his naps are linked to something more than just a sugar crash?

Respiratory problems can significantly disrupt sleep, which can lead to several health issues.

The World Health Organization (WHO) stated that approximately 30% of children worldwide experience sleep disorders.

In India, estimated 20%-30% children suffer from sleep disorders. Respiratory diseases like pneumonia and tuberculosis continue to remain significant public health concerns.

Let’s dive deeper to understand the unique aspects of sleep and respiratory health in children.

What are the Developmental Factors Affecting Sleep in Children?

Infants: Infants tend to wake up every couple of hours for feedings. Their immune system is weak, and their respiratory systems are immature, and thus they are more susceptible to infections such as bronchitis and croup.

Toddlers: As they grow older, their sleep pattern improves significantly. However, they might still experience sleep terrors and sleepwalking. Asthma, allergic rhinitis, etc might be contributing factors.

School- Aged Children: Stress, academic pressure, electronic devices, dust pollution, etc, can cause common cold and sinusitis.

Adolescents: They require more sleep due to their rapidly changing body. Sleep apnea and snoring are quite common during this phase of development, which are often linked to enlarged tonsils and adenoids.

What are some Respiratory Conditions Affecting Children’s Sleep?

Asthma: It is a chronic inflammation of the airways that causes wheezing, coughing, difficulty breathing, etc. It can significantly disrupt sleep, impacting concentration and overall productivity. If not treated, it can even turn fatal.

Allergic Rhinitis: Also known as Hay Fever. It is an allergic reaction to airborne pollen, dust mites, etc. It causes nasal congestion, runny nose, fever, itchy eyes, etc, making it difficult to sleep.

Cystic Fibrosis: A genetic disorder affecting the lungs and other organs. It can lead to chronic lung infections, mucus buildup, etc, thus affecting sleep.

Sleep Apnea: Pauses or interruptions in breathing during sleep. For more information regarding this, read more here:

Which Child Celebrities Suffered from Respiratory Conditions?

Mason Disick, the son of Kourtney Kardashian and Scott Disick has been diagnosed with asthma and they have spoken publicly about his condition.

Even Priyanka Chopra Jonas has suffered from asthma since the age of 5.

She once shared, “Those who know me well know that I’m an asthmatic. I mean, what’s to hide? I knew that I had to control my asthma before it controlled me. As long as I’ve got my inhaler, asthma can’t stop me from achieving my goals.”

How to Promote Healthy Sleep in Children?

1.    Make them wear proper masks in dust prone areas

2.    Create and maintain a constant sleep schedule

3.    Focus on making them eat healthy food

4.    Manage allergens by using air purifiers

5.    Make sure the environment is dark

6.    Consult a paediatrician regularly

7.    Limit screen time before bed

8.    Avoid consuming stimulants

9.    Reduce unnecessary stress

10. Encourage physical activity

11. Generate awareness

What are some of the commonly Asked Questions?