Daytime Sleep Problems and Asperger's

I have a 11 yr old grandson who has Asperger's and when he hit a growth spurt he required a dose change in the drug he is on(conserta). my daughter is a nurse and she read your post, she suggested that the problem maybe that the dose your son is on is not enough to sustain your son through the day and maybe the reason for your son's behavior at school. It would be a good idea to take your son back to the doctor and have him re-adjust your son's dose. Good luck! J.

My 9 yr. old aspie daughter's therapist had us increase her melatonin to 3 mg a day, and my 14 yr old aspie/ADD's therapist recommended coffee, of all things, to help him focus. Both recommendations have helped!

Go back to the doctor and request bloodwork for your son. Also, growing children often need their medication adjusted every 6 months. I know you are probably on top of it, but seeing his specialist (be it a developmental pediatrician or psychiatrist) is the first step. Adolescence can do crazy things to the typical medication management routine, so bloodwork is my first thought. I have also seen children have Sleep Studies where the quality of sleep can be observed.

Hi L. -

I have two Aspberger's kids and one right on the border. I would go back to your psychiatrist and tell him/her what you are seeing and go from there. (Talk to a psychiatrist that specializes in Autism/Aspbergers, not just a regular doctor.) It sounds to me like he needs a medication change. After so long of being on one med or antoher they grow a tolerance to it and it doesn't work anymore. If it isn't his diet he may need a stimulant like Adderall or Concerta. I would also request some routine bloodwork to check his blood levels, organ functions and his hormone levels. He may be getting ready to go through another growth spurt. Keep your head up - you'll find the answer somewhere and things will get better. S.

I don't know anything about Aspergers, but I do know that Melatonin can have side affects similar to what you are seeing, and it can also give you very vivid dreams that make your sleep not as restful as it should be. Maybe you should stop giving him that for a while.

I don't know anything about the medication he is on or the melatonin he is taking, but you might want to look at his diet as well.

If he is hypoglycemic (significant changes in blood sugar levels) then he may need to be eating a more balanced diet, with protein and complex carbohydrates, throughout the day. If this is the case he will probably have to stay away from sodas, candy, and other simple sugars (except for occasional special treats). Your son may also need to have permission to eat snacks during class to keep his energy level up.

As an adult, I have found this to be the case for me. There are certain cereals and snacks that I cannot eat, but instead eat raw oatmeal with nuts and flaxseed oil in the mornings. I feel more balanced and don't get the highs and lows that I was getting from Raisin Bran or other "simple sugar" cereals.

I hope you are able to find some answers.

Good luck!