Pediatric Sleep Medicine

Sleep disorders in children affect the whole family. Restless nights, trouble falling asleep and sleepwalking negatively impact a child’s overall mood and behavior during the day.

At UNM Health, we can identify the cause behind your child’s sleepless nights— and allow you to get a good night’s sleep in return.

Our board-certified pediatric sleep specialists work to restore your child’s health and well-being. And if needed, we work with pediatric pulmonologists, otolaryngologists and psychiatrists for comprehensive and compassionate care.

Diagnosing Sleep Problems

To learn the cause of your child's sleep disturbances, a doctor may recommend testing or an overnight sleep study in the UNM Heath System’s Sleep Disorders Center. We offer locations in Albuquerque and Rio Rancho for your convenience. One parent may spend the night at the center.

Once you arrive, we’ll get your child settled in and comfortable. A sleep lab technologist will place small electrodes on your child's scalp, nose, mouth, chest and abdomen, and a sensor on his or her finger. The electrodes and sensor capture vital signs throughout the night. The technologist will be available throughout the night. There are no needles or invasive procedures during a sleep study.

Treating Pediatric Sleep Problems

After the sleep study, our specialists evaluate the findings and make treatment recommendations.

Common treatment plans for sleep disturbances include:

  • Behavior modifications such as using scheduled awakenings and positive reinforcement
  • Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy

Accredited Care

Throughout the testing and diagnosis process, rest assured that our team is highly experienced in sleep disorders. UNM Hospitals Sleep Disorders Center is accredited by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. That means your child benefits from:

  • Advanced, high-quality technology
  • Strict measures to ensure safety and accurate results
  • Thoroughly trained, qualified staff

Prepare for Your Appointment

Save time at your child's first appointment by printing the forms below, completing them and bringing them to the UNM Hospitals Sleep Disorders Center.