Sleep terrors [night terrors] Save

Sleep terrors, also known as night terrors, are a type of parasomnia sleep disorder that can affect both children and adults. This disorder is characterized by sudden and intense episodes of fear or terror during sleep, often accompanied by physical symptoms. In this article, we will explore what sleep terrors are, their symptoms, causes, and available treatment options.

Symptoms of Sleep Terrors

The symptoms of sleep terrors can be alarming and may include:

1. Sudden awakening: individuals may suddenly wake up from sleep with a feeling of terror or panic.

2. Fear and terror: during a sleep terror episode, individuals may experience intense feelings of fear, panic, or terror.

3. Physical symptoms: individuals may experience physical symptoms such as sweating, racing heart, and rapid breathing during a sleep terror episode.

4. Difficulty returning to sleep: individuals may have difficulty falling back asleep after a sleep terror episode.

Causes of Sleep Terrors

The exact cause of sleep terrors is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Some of the common risk factors for sleep terrors include:

1. Genetics: individuals with a family history of sleep terrors may be more susceptible to developing the disorder.

2. Sleep deprivation: not getting enough sleep can increase the risk of sleep terrors.

3. Stress and anxiety: high levels of stress and anxiety can contribute to the development of sleep terrors.

4. Medications: some medications, such as antidepressants and antihistamines, can increase the risk of sleep terrors.