Why Do Children Cry At Night?

Crying at night and insomnia is a common problem in young children. In Chinese Medicine theory there are a number of factors that can contribute to this problem. These include viruses, colds and flu, diet and indigestion, dreams, emotions, separation and stranger anxiety, stomach pain, hunger and thirst.

Chinese Medicine considers the major cause to be too much Heat in the body. The Heat can be caused by the factors listed above and affects the Large Intestine, Heart, Liver and Lungs organs. The Heat then disturbs the spirit or part of the body that is responsible for sleep. This causes the child to wake up and become easily frightened and possibly cry.

Another cause, according to Chinese Medicine, is a weakness in the Spleen organ. This means the food is not easily digested and can accumulate in the intestines, causing discomfort to the child and making them wake easily during the night.

It is important to find out the cause or reason of the night-time crying to help the child and parents overcome this problem. Chinese Medicine suggests treatment depending on the cause and type of crying. For example:

Sudden or sharp crying may indicate pain in the stomach or other parts of the body.

Niggling crying can indicate the child's body is uncomfortable, hungry, thirsty or having vivid dreams.

Scared crying involves the Liver or Kidney organs and emotions such as anxiety.

Crying with a red face, fever and sweating indicates Heat in the Large Intestine and Lung organs.