Dr. Akash Paul

My eight-year-old daughter is unable to sleep for long hours at night. How can I improve her sleep?
— Smita Dasgupta, Bengaluru

To improve her sleep, you need to restrict strenuous physical activity one-two hours before bedtime, and stop her consumption of caffeine and aerated sugary drinks. Also limit television watching, playing video games and mobile phone use before bedtime as it delays sleep.

You also need to create a sleep conducive environment. Establish a bedtime routine. Start a relaxing activity before bedtime, such as reading, playing a non-electronic toy/game, or read her a story. Maintain regular sleep and waking-up timings at home. You can also feed her a banana after dinner. Bananas release the sleep-inducing hormone serotonin.

My nine-year-old son enjoys playing sports and games. This makes him sweat a lot and he bathes three times a day. Is this okay?

— Linda Menon, Trivandrum
If he isn’t experiencing skin problems because of frequent bathing, there’s no cause for worry. However, children in this age group don’t need even a daily bath. Children aged six-11 years are advised to bathe once or twice a week or to take a shower if they become dirty after outdoor play.

My daughter (16) is getting her menstrual periods for only two days a month. Is this normal?
— Ritika Deshmukh, Mumbai

It can take up to two years after the onset of puberty for monthly menstrual cycles to stabilise. Sometimes body weight, physical exercise, and stress can also prompt light periods. Normally, it’s not a cause for concern. However, if you’re still worried about her shorter-than-usual periods, consult a gynaecologist.

My 15-year-son is experiencing puberty and suffering the discomfort of physical changes. He has become reticent and anxious. Please help!

— Priyanka Malik, Pune
Adolescence triggers biological changes within male children. Physically, there’s increase in height, acquisition of muscle mass, growth of body hair, distribution of body fat and development of secondary sexual characteristics.
Counsel your son about these physical changes emphasising that it’s a normal phase of growing up. Encourage him to discuss his fears and anxieties and offer all support and encouragement to cope with this difficult transitional phase. Teenage children need parental love, support, encouragement, attention and acceptance.

(Dr. Akash Paul is general physician, Pillar Hospital, Port Blair)