Sleep Terror DisorderKate Brennan

What is Sleep Terror Disorder? Sleep terror disorder is defined as repeated

temporary arousal from sleep, during which the affected person appears and acts extremely frightened.

Also known as “night errors” A parasomnia disorder characterized by extreme and

a temporary inability to regain full consciousness A person wakes from a slow- wave sleep

Usually gasping, moaning, or screaming

What is Sleep Terror Disorder Sleep terrors are not nightmares Also known as pavor nocturnus

Pavor nocturnus is a frightening sleep disorder in which a person becomes terrified during a sleep episode, then has no memory of the event after they fully awake.

It is difficult to wake up someone during a night terror, and if left alone, most will simply settle back to sleep without waking.

Causes of Sleep Terror Disorder The causes of sleep terror are for the most part

unknown. Some researchers suggest that sleep terrors are

caused by a delay in the maturation of the child's central nervous system.

Such factors as sleep deprivation, psychological stress, and fever may also trigger episodes of sleep terror.

Symptoms of Sleep Terror Disorder Similar to symptoms of extreme fear

rapid heartbeat, sweating, and rapid breathing (hyperventilation).

Heart rate can increase up to two to four times the person's regular rate.

People sometimes scream or cry. The person's facial expression may be fearful.

Panting Large pupils Confusion

Symptoms Continued Relative unresponsiveness to efforts of others to

comfort the person during the episode. No detailed dream is recalled and there is amnesia

for the episode. The episodes cause clinically significant distress or

impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.

The disturbance is not due to the direct physiological effects of a substance (drugs or medication) or a general medical condition.

People Prone to Night Terrors Night terrors are most common in children 2 through

6 years old, but can occur at any age. 3% of children get night terrors

Most children will outgrow night terrors. The number of episodes usually decreases after age 10.

Causes of Sleep Terror Disorder No definite cause In children, emotional stress, high fever, or lack of

sleep seem to cause it. Night terrors can be hereditary. In adults, stress and lack of sleep seem to be triggers,

as well as emotional tension and the use of alcohol.

Treatment for Night Terror Disorder Gentleness and comfort Disposal of anything nearby that can potentially be harmful Avoidance of loud movements or voices that might frighten

the person further Some doctors may advise other treatment options, such as

counseling or psychotherapy. Others may prescribe Benzodiazepine medications, such as

diazepam or the over-the-counter Benadryl elixir.

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