Sleep talking is a common condition in children.
Children may whine in sleep because of stress, fever, sleep deprivation or changes in their sleep schedule.
Parents often find it adorable when children speak or whine while sleeping, but it is important to know the reason behind this. Asia’s leading ENT surgeon, Dr Vikas Aggarwal shares his insights on why children whine or speak during their sleep. Let us understand this based on his explanation. He cited that no exact reason has been found yet on why children talk in their sleep. It could look worrisome, but it is not something to fret over. According to reports, children may whine in sleep because of stress, fever, sleep deprivation or changes in their sleep schedule. Genes could also be a reason for sleep talking in children, some reports say. Another reason Dr. Vikas Aggarwal stated is blockage in the nose. Children tend to breathe through their mouths if their nose is blocked. This could mean that the child may start talking in their sleep. However one must remember that there is not much research done on this. The third reason cited by the expert is the deviated nasal septum. As per reports, it could have an effect on the child’s sleep schedule, and even make breathing difficult. Problems like snoring, wheezing and sleep apnea are caused because of this condition.
If a curved nose cord or deviated septum is found in a child, then decongestants and nasal sprays are suggested to get rid of the blockage in the nose. It also depends on the severity of the blockage, Dr. Vikas Aggarwal believes. Another simple reason for a child talking in sleep could be that he or she is excited for something like a holiday or some trip. A parent has to speak to their child in a supportive manner to calm them when he or she is awake, this could help lessen sleep talking.
Many reports say that the most common reason for sleep talking in children is that they are tired. It is necessary for a child to have a fulfilling sleep schedule. Reports state further that children between the ages of 2 to 12 years tend to sleep and talk more frequently. As they grow older, the condition gradually goes away.
