Why does a child cry and fuss during sleep at night?
May 05, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Weiling
Introduction
Sudden crying during sleep is often one of the signs of poor sleep quality in infants. In addition to common external factors that disrupt infant sleep—such as an unsuitable sleep environment, excessive excitement before bedtime, or physical discomfort—internal factors specific to the infant can also affect sleep.
If a child suddenly cries or fusses inexplicably during nighttime sleep, parents must pay close attention. Children rarely cry without cause; persistent crying usually indicates discomfort or distress.
Sudden, intense crying during sleep is often a sign of poor sleep quality in infants. In addition to common external factors that disrupt sleep—such as an unsuitable sleep environment, excessive excitement before bedtime, or physical discomfort—internal factors may also significantly affect an infant’s sleep. For example, younger infants (e.g., those aged 2–3 months) frequently experience nighttime crying due to conditions such as intestinal gas, colic, or lactose intolerance.
As infants grow older—typically after five months—nighttime awakenings and crying may result from teething or rapid brain development. In such cases, gentle soothing is usually sufficient. Establishing a consistent day-night circadian rhythm generally depends on the infant’s physiological maturation.
