Sleep terrors, also known as night terrors, are a type of parasomnia, which is a disorder that causes abnormal behavior during sleep. Sleep terrors are more common in children, but adults can also experience them. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatment of sleep terrors.
The exact cause of sleep terrors is not known, but there are several factors that may contribute to their development. Some of these factors include:
During a sleep terror episode, the person may suddenly sit up in bed, scream, and appear to be extremely frightened. They may also sweat, breathe rapidly, and have a rapid heartbeat. Unlike nightmares, sleep terrors do not involve dreaming and the person may not remember the episode. Sleep terrors usually occur during the first few hours of sleep.
If sleep terrors are occurring frequently and interfering with daily life, treatment may be necessary. Some options for treatment include:
In conclusion, sleep terrors can be a frightening experience, but they can be managed with the right treatment. If you or a loved one is experiencing sleep terrors, it is important to seek medical advice to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.