Night terrors

Night terrors, also known as sleep terrors, are a type of sleep disorder characterized by feelings of terror or dread, and typically occur during the first hours of stage 3-4 non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep. Night terrors tend to happen during periods of arousal from delta sleep, also known as slow-wave sleep.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

Night terrors are often associated with screaming, flailing, and panic; in extreme cases, they can result in bodily harm to oneself or others. People experiencing a night terror may not respond to voices and can be difficult to fully awaken. Night terrors can often be mistaken for nightmares, but unlike nightmares, people do not usually recall the content of a night terror episode. Night terrors can cause sleep deprivation and severe emotional distress.

Causes[edit | edit source]

The exact cause of night terrors is unclear, but they can be triggered by stress, depression, fatigue, sleep deprivation, or certain medications. They are also more common in people with a family history of sleep disorders or mental health disorders. Night terrors are more common in children than in adults, and girls are more likely to experience them than boys.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for night terrors can involve addressing underlying conditions, improving sleep hygiene, and in some cases, medication. Psychotherapy or counseling may also be beneficial. It's important to consult a healthcare provider if night terrors are causing significant distress or sleep disruption.

References[edit | edit source]

Night terrors Resources
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