Sleep Problems in Autism Spectrum Disorder

This review highlights the significant prevalence and multifactorial etiology of sleep problems among children with ASD. Proper understanding and screening by health care providers is crucial for appropriate diagnosis and treatment given the degree of cognitive, emotional, physical, and behavioral impact sleep disorders can have on the patient and caregiver. Health care providers should construct an individualized plan for sleep management and should incorporate behavioral interventions with potential pharmacologic support. Similar to the enigmatic nature of ASD itself, the relationship between ASD and sleep disorders is complex and heterogeneous. Consequently, further research is needed to understand the intricate connection between these two conditions and further optimize evidence -based interventions for this specific population.