Understanding and managing: Sleep problems in Down syndrome

A significant number of people with Down syndrome have difficulty falling asleep and regularly wake up at night, after which they struggle to fall back asleep. Additionally, sleep apnea occurs more frequently in people with Down syndrome. About three-quarters of people with Down syndrome suffer from sleep apnea, which can be a significant cause of their sleep problems.

Sleep apnea occurs more frequently in children and adults with Down syndrome due to often weak muscle tone in, among other things, the tongue, which can obstruct airflow from the throat to the trachea. This leads to periods of breath cessation during sleep, where the body responds by waking the person up, as there is insufficient oxygen being absorbed.

Read more about sleep problems in sleep apnea.

Children with Down syndrome often experience sleep problems, of which sleep apnea is a common cause. More than half of children with Down syndrome sometimes experience periods of breath cessation during the night. In some children, this problem is serious enough that action must be taken to address it.

It is important to be aware of the possibility of sleep apnea in children with Down syndrome, so that you can work with a doctor to find appropriate measures to improve the child's sleep quality and well-being.

Other causes of sleep problems in children with Down syndrome

Sleep problems can also be caused by events during the day or by habits, such as going to bed late. Excessive stimulation during the day can cause a child to be too tired or anxious to sleep. Parents sometimes notice this when the child only wants to sleep in the parental bedroom.

When you are looking for professional help to sleep better with Down syndrome, we advise consulting a doctor. He or she will work with you to find an appropriate treatment for sleep problems with Down syndrome.

However, there are also a number of general sleep tips that can help someone with Down syndrome.

• Regular sleep schedule: Aim for a consistent sleep schedule by going to bed and waking up at the same time every day.
• Comfortable sleep environment: Ensure a quiet and comfortable sleep environment with a suitable mattress and pillow. Avoid excessive stimulation in the bedroom, such as bright light or noise.
• Healthy sleep habits: Encourage relaxing activities before bedtime, such as a warm bath or reading a calming book. Limit the use of electronic devices before bedtime, as blue light can disrupt sleep.

For more sleep tips, we would like to refer you to our article: 14 Golden Sleep Tips

The use of a weighted blanket is sometimes considered for people with Down syndrome who experience sleep problems, such as difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep. Although there is no guarantee that a weighted blanket will be effective for everyone, its use can help create a sense of safety and relaxation, which may contribute to a better sleep experience. It is important to consider the specific needs and preferences of each individual when choosing a weighted blanket.

If you suffer from sleep apnea, you need to be careful when using a weighted blanket at night, as it may worsen the symptoms of these conditions. Would you still like to try it? Then first contact your doctor to discuss this.

When you experience sleep apnea with Down syndrome, you can make very good use of the weighted blanket in the period before going to bed. For example, use the weighted blanket on the couch to calm down. You will then go to bed with a calmed body and fall asleep more easily.

Also check out our weighted blankets for children if your child has Down syndrome and has difficulty calming down in the evening.

If you have any questions about using a weighted blanket with Down syndrome, please feel free to contact us. We are happy to help you.