#asktheexpert my son is not sleeping during nights from 10pm to 6am and crying a lot

Question

Accepted Answer

Yes, new born - most baby having this kind of problem, this may go upto few months. In general, after delivery baby exposed open atmosphere, they may have some fear for this they will cry continuously in day and night also. Minimise the daytime sleep which will get more time sleep in the night.

Accepted Answer

If your son is crying a lot and not sleeping well during the night from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m., there could be several potential reasons for this, and it's important to try to identify the cause to address it. Here are some possible causes and tips to help him sleep better:

1. Sleep Regression At around 1-2 years old, many children go through a sleep regression, which can result in difficulty sleeping, frequent waking, and more crying during the night. This is usually temporary and can be linked to developmental milestones or changes in routine. 2. Teething Teething can cause discomfort, pain, and irritability, making it difficult for your child to sleep. If your son is teething, he may experience gum pain that interferes with sleep. What to do: Teething Gel or Pain Relief: Use a baby-safe teething gel or consult your pediatrician about using pain-relief options like acetaminophen or ibuprofen (if age-appropriate). Cold Teething Toys: Offer cold teething rings or chilled washcloths for relief. 3. Hunger or Thirst Sometimes babies and toddlers wake up crying because they are hungry or thirsty. Ensure he is well-fed before bed and offer a small drink of water if needed. What to do: Full Dinner and Snack: Make sure he eats a good dinner, and consider a small bedtime snack if needed to prevent hunger during the night. Comfort Feeding: If he is still on milk, ensure he is getting enough during the day so he doesn’t wake up hungry. 4. Separation Anxiety Children around this age often experience separation anxiety, where they may become upset when they realize that you’re not around. This could lead to crying at bedtime or during the night. What to do: Consistent Bedtime Routine: Establish a calming bedtime routine to reassure him and help him feel secure (e.g., bath, reading a story, gentle music). Gradual Comforting: If he’s crying, try offering comfort with gentle pats, shushing, or even sitting near him until he falls asleep. 5. Discomfort or Sleep Environment Ensure that your child’s sleep environment is comfortable. Sometimes, discomfort due to temperature, wet diapers, or even uncomfortable clothing can make it hard for babies to sleep. What to do: Check Room Temperature: Ensure the room is at a comfortable temperature (not too hot or cold). Comfortable Bedding: Ensure that the bed is comfortable, and check for any irritation like wet diapers or tight clothing. 6. Nightmares or Night Terrors At this age, babies and toddlers can sometimes experience nightmares or night terrors, which can cause them to wake up upset. Unlike nightmares, night terrors typically occur in the first few hours of sleep and can be difficult to console. What to do: Comforting and Reassuring: Be there for him when he wakes up crying. Offer comfort and reassurance. Avoid Stimulation: Try to avoid over-stimulating activities or screen time before bed, as this can lead to restlessness. 7. Health Issues If his crying seems persistent or unusual, it could be related to an underlying health issue, such as gas, constipation, or even an ear infection. If he has other symptoms like fever, vomiting, or if the crying continues for extended periods, it’s best to consult your pediatrician. General Tips to Improve Sleep: Create a Calming Bedtime Routine: Consistency is key. Try to follow the same routine every night (bath, story, cuddle, etc.) to signal to your child that it’s time for sleep. Be Patient: Sleep struggles at this age are common, and most will pass with time. Stay patient and consistent with your approach.

If the problem persists or gets worse, or if you notice any other concerning symptoms, it would be a good idea to consult with your pediatrician to rule out any health concerns or to get more personalized advice.