Night terrors, also known as night terror or nocturnal dread, are a rare but disturbing sleep disorder that affects both children and adults. They are often confused with nightmares, but they are two different phenomena. While nightmares usually occur during the REM sleep phase and are remembered upon waking, night terrors occur in a deeper stage of sleep and the affected person is not aware of what is happening. In this article, we will focus on night terrors in adults, exploring their symptoms, causes, and possible treatments.
Symptoms of night terrors in adults
Night terrors in adults are characterized by sudden episodes of intense fear during deep sleep, usually during the first hours of the night. These episodes can last from a few seconds to several minutes and are often accompanied by physical symptoms such as sweating, tachycardia, agitation, and even incomprehensible screams or vocalizations. Unlike nightmares, people who experience night terrors do not remember what triggered the episode when they wake up, which can be confusing and alarming.
Some of the most common symptoms of night terrors in adults include :
- Suddenly waking up with a feeling of intense fear
- Excessive sweating
- Rapid breathing
- Pattering heart
- Agitation or sudden movements
- Involuntary screams or vocalizations
It is important to keep in mind that night terrors can affect the quality of a person's sleep and have an impact negative on your general well-being if not treated properly. Below, we will explore some of the possible underlying causes of this sleep disorder in adults.
Causes of night terrors in adults
Night terrors in adults can be related to a variety of of factors, both physical and psychological. Although the exact cause of this sleep disorder is not always clear, there are some theories about why these episodes of intense fear occur during the night.
Some possible causes of night terrors in adults are: h3>- Genetic factors: Some studies suggest that night terrors may have a genetic component, meaning that people with a family history of this disorder may have a higher risk of experiencing it .
- Stress and anxiety: Emotional stress, anxiety and other mental health problems can trigger night terrors in adults. The impact of stress on the nervous system during sleep can contribute to the manifestation of these episodes.
- Sleep disorders: Night terrors may be associated with other sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea, sleepwalking or sleep paralysis. These disorders can disrupt the normal sleep cycle and increase the likelihood of experiencing night terrors.
- Fever and medications: Some medications, especially those that affect the central nervous system, can trigger night terrors in adults. Additionally, high fever or other physical health problems can predispose to these experiences during sleep.
- Genetic factors: Some studies suggest that night terrors may have a genetic component, meaning that people with a family history of this disorder may have a higher risk of experiencing it .
- Stress and anxiety: Emotional stress, anxiety and other mental health problems can trigger night terrors in adults. The impact of stress on the nervous system during sleep can contribute to the manifestation of these episodes.
- Sleep disorders: Night terrors may be associated with other sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea, sleepwalking or sleep paralysis. These disorders can disrupt the normal sleep cycle and increase the likelihood of experiencing night terrors.
- Fever and medications: Some medications, especially those that affect the central nervous system, can trigger night terrors in adults. Additionally, high fever or other physical health problems can predispose to these experiences during sleep.
It is essential to identify the possible underlying causes of night terrors in adults in order to address the sleep disorder. effectively and provide appropriate treatment. Below, we will explore some strategies and therapeutic approaches that can help people who suffer from this problem improve their quality of sleep.
Treatment of night terrors in adults
Treatment of night terrors in adults can vary depending on the underlying cause and severity of the episodes. It is important to consult a healthcare professional, preferably a sleep disorders specialist or a clinical psychologist, to receive an accurate diagnosis and an individualized treatment plan. Some of the most common treatment options for night terrors in adults include:
1. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a widely used therapeutic approach to treat a variety of sleep disorders, including night terrors. This therapy focuses on identifying and changing negative thoughts and behaviors that may contribute to night terror episodes, promoting healthy sleep habits and relaxation techniques to reduce anxiety and stress that can trigger the episodes.
2. Medications
In some cases, doctors may prescribe medications to help control night terrors in adults, especially if an underlying problem such as anxiety or chronic stress is suspected. However, it is important to note that medications should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional and combined with other forms of treatment to address the root cause of the disorder.
3. Managing stress and anxiety
Reducing stress and anxiety in daily life can significantly contribute to the prevention of night terrors in adults. Regularly practicing relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, yoga or art therapy can help calm the mind and body before bed, improving sleep quality and reducing the occurrence of night terror episodes.
4. Establish a consistent sleep routine
Maintaining a regular and consistent sleep routine is essential to promote restful sleep and prevent night terrors in adults. This includes setting regular bedtimes and wake-up times, creating a sleep-friendly environment in the bedroom, and avoiding stimulants like caffeine or nicotine before going to bed.
In conclusion, night terrors in adults They are a sleep disorder that can have a significant impact on the quality of life and emotional well-being of people who experience them. It is essential to identify the symptoms, explore possible underlying causes and seek appropriate treatment to address this problem effectively. With the help of specialized health professionals and the implementation of therapeutic strategies, it is possible to manage and reduce the frequency of night terrors, allowing adults to enjoy a restful and peaceful sleep.