Night terrors, also known as sleep panic, are a rare but disturbing sleep disorder that primarily affects children, although it can also occur in adults. These episodes of sudden terror while the person is sleeping can cause an intense feeling of fear, confusion and even aggression. Although night terrors are usually harmless, they can be alarming for both the person experiencing them and those who witness them.
What are night terrors? ?
Night terrors are a sleep disorder classified as a parasomnia, a type of abnormal behavior that occurs during sleep. Unlike nightmares, which usually occur during REM sleep and are usually remembered when waking up, night terrors occur during deep sleep, in the early hours of the night, and the person usually does not remember what happened when they wake up. completely.
Symptoms of night terrors
During a night terror episode, the person may sit up abruptly in bed, scream, gasp, move frantically, and even appear completely terrified. Often, the person appears to be awake but is actually asleep, which can make it difficult to communicate or be aware of what is happening.
Causes of night terrors
Although The exact cause of night terrors is not known with certainty, it is believed that they may be related to stress, anxiety, lack of sleep, fatigue, sudden changes in the sleep cycle, or even genetic factors. Night terrors can occur at any stage of life, but are most common in childhood, with a decrease in frequency as a person ages.
Impact of night terrors on daily life
Night terrors can have a significant impact on the quality of life of those who experience them, as well as their family members and loved ones who may witness the episodes. The fear, confusion, and aggression associated with night terrors can affect sleep, daily functioning, mental and emotional health, and interpersonal relationships.
Diagnosis and treatment of night terrors
If you suspect that you or someone you know is experiencing night terrors, it is important to seek help from a mental health professional or a doctor who specializes in sleep disorders. Diagnosis of night terrors is usually based on the individual's or family members' description of symptoms, and may involve additional testing to rule out other medical conditions.
Treatment of night terrors may include techniques relaxation, cognitive behavioral therapy, lifestyle modifications to promote better sleep, and in some cases, prescription medications. It is essential to address stress, anxiety, and any underlying issues that may be contributing to night terrors to help reduce their frequency and severity.
Conclusion
In summary, night terrors They are episodes of intense fear and confusion that occur during deep sleep, affecting both children and adults. Although these episodes are usually benign, it is essential to seek professional help if night terrors significantly affect the quality of life of the affected person. With proper diagnosis and treatment, it is possible to manage night terrors and improve sleep quality and emotional well-being.