Many people think of sleep or night terrors as the same as nightmares, but they vastly different.

 

Sleep Terrors belong to a specific category of sleep disorders – Parasomnia –unusual experiences that disrupts sleep. A person experiencing sleep terror are asleep but seem like they are awake. They are unlikely to remember that the sleep terror happened, or the dream accompanying it, when they wake up in the morning.

 

During a sleep terror, the person may sit up, talk, cry out, shout and even walk. Their eyes may be open. They may seem confused, and frightened, and behave strangely.

 

Sleep terrors can last for just a few minutes, or even an hour. They usually occur within the first few hours of falling asleep. They may become more agitated if someone tries to calm them down.

 

Causes of sleep terrors

When a person suddenly arouses from deep sleep, it could trigger sleep terrors. The first episode may be triggered due to –

 

* Lack of proper sleep
* Irregular sleep pattern
* illness
* certain medications
* excessive caffeine intake
* sleeping with a full bladder
* sleeping in an unfamiliar environment
* external stimuli, like noise and light
* stress
* anxiety

 

A history of sleep terrors in the family may make it more likely for a person to experience them. They are more common in children but often resolve naturally during adolescence.

 

Are sleep terrors the same as nightmares?

Nightmares are frightening or distressing dreams. Contrary to sleep terrors that usually occur during the first few hours of sleep, nightmares usually occur during REM sleep, and people would remember some details of a nightmare.

Can sleep terrors be treated or cured?

If you are helping someone who is experiencing sleep terrors, stay calm and away, unless the person is in an unsafe situation. In most cases, sleep terrors resolve themselves in children as they reach adolescence. For others, the following can be done –

 

·         Safety first

Make sure the person with sleep terrors is safe. For example, you may want to install gates at the staircase, lock doors and windows, keep hallways lit and uncluttered.

 

·         Avoid triggers

Note what occurred before a sleep terror, and look for any common factors in different episodes. For example, going to bed late, or stress. Managing these factors may help to reduce the frequency and intensity of sleep terrors.

 

·         Sleep routine

Develop habits that promote healthy sleep. Maintain a regular sleep schedule.

 

·         Medication management

Consult your physician to understand if any medications are interfering with the sleep patterns and if they can be replaced with safer medications.

 

·       Positive Mental Health Relaxation

Music is proven to relax, reduce stress and rejuvenate your mind. The Positive Mental Health Relaxation Series by Dr. George Akinkuoye can change your body and brain chemistry, helping you fall asleep easily and sleep through the night. For example, the Sleep Spindle adjuster is an easy yet amazing solution for restful sleep.

 

If you want to improve your sleep but can’t, seek a professional’s help. Dr. George Akinkuoye brings together the science of sleep medicine and wellness to help you fulfill your sleep needs and overcome sleep disorders. Learn more at 508-733-5951.

 

Disclaimer: These statements have not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.

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