Sleep disorders in children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder

BACKGROUND Sleep disturbances are frequently associated with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) though they are not included in the current classification systems such as the DSM-IV and ICD-10. These problems may complicate the course of the illness as they may be associated with the treatment given AIM To evaluate children with ADHD for sleep-related problems. METHODS The study group comprised 32 children with ADHD and their 20 healthy siblings made up the control group. Sleep-related problems were assessed on a checklist prepared on the basis of the Children Sleep Questionnaire-parent version. RESULTS A majority of the children with ADHD had at least one sleep-related problem. Comparison with healthy siblings revealed non-significant differences on the parameters of sleep-related movement disorders and parasomnias. CONCLUSION There is a need for more detailed studies involving sensitive parameters.