Experience Night Terror? Recognize Sleep Disorders from Night Terror

Experience Night Terror? Recognize Sleep Disorders from Night Terror. Some people experience sleep disorders due to night terrors and it makes their health feel disturbed. By understanding, finding out the causes, and handling them, night terrors can be understood thoroughly.

Definition of Night Terror

Night terror is a sleep disorder that occurs when someone suddenly wakes up from sleep in a state of intense fear. This is different from nightmares because during night terrors, the individual is not fully aware of what is happening and often does not remember the incident after waking up. Although it often occurs in children, night terrors can also be experienced by adults.

Causes of Night Terror

The exact cause of night terrors is not fully understood, but the following factors may contribute to the occurrence of this disorder:

● Stress and anxiety - Emotional stress or anxiety can increase the likelihood of night terrors, especially if someone feels depressed or worried.

● Irregular sleep - Lack of sleep or disturbances in sleep patterns can increase the risk of night terrors. This may happen because someone enters a deeper stage of sleep quickly.

● Certain medical conditions – Certain medical conditions such as sleep disorders (such as sleep apnea), fever or seizures can increase the risk of night terrors.

● Genetic factors – There is evidence that night terrors can run in families, suggesting a genetic factor.

● Drug or alcohol use – The use of certain drugs or alcohol consumption may also play a role in triggering this sleep disorder.

Treating Night Terrors

While night terrors are generally harmless and often resolve on their own as they get older (especially in children), there are steps you can take to help manage or reduce the frequency of episodes:

● Maintaining a regular sleep routine – Establishing a consistent sleep schedule and ensuring you get enough sleep is important for reducing night terror episodes.

● Reducing stress and anxiety – Managing stress through methods such as meditation, relaxation or therapy can help prevent night terrors.

● Creating a comfortable sleep environment – ​A quiet, dark and comfortable sleep environment can help promote better sleep and reduce sleep disturbances.

● Preventative wake-up calls – Some experts recommend “scheduling a wake time” about 15-30 minutes before a night terror episode is expected. This can help prevent the episode by breaking up the sleep cycle.

● Medical consultation -If night terrors interfere with your daily life or last for a long time, it is wise to consult a doctor or sleep specialist. In some cases, cognitive behavioral therapy or the use of certain medications may be recommended to treat the condition.

What are the Characteristics of Night Terrors?

Night terrors have quite distinct characteristics that are different from nightmares. Here are some of the main characteristics of night terrors:

● Waking up with intense fear: People who experience night terrors usually wake up suddenly in a state of extreme fear or anxiety, often accompanied by loud screaming.

● Uncontrolled body movements: A person experiencing night terrors may make sudden, uncontrolled physical movements, such as jumping up and down, sitting up, or even running out of bed.

● Eyes open but not aware: Although the eyes of a person experiencing a night terror are open, they are not fully aware or able to recognize people around them. They appear confused and frightened.

● Physical signs: Physical symptoms that appear can include an increased heart rate, rapid or gasping breathing, cold sweats, and a tense body.

● Memory loss: After a night terror episode, the person often cannot remember what happened during the episode or thinks it was just a dream.

● Occurs early in sleep: Night terrors usually occur within an hour or two of falling asleep, while the sleeper is in the deep non-REM stage of sleep.

● No full awareness: Unlike nightmares, people experiencing night terrors are not fully aware of the dream or the events that are frightening them.

● Rapid heartbeat, sweating, and heavy breathing–Physical symptoms such as an increased heart rate, cold sweats, or rapid breathing are also common.

These characteristics indicate that night terrors are a sleep disorder that can cause deep fear and confusion, both for the individual experiencing it and for those around them.

 

Conclusion

Night terrors are a sleep disorder that can be very frightening, especially for those who experience them. Although this condition is common in children, adults can also be affected.

With a better understanding of the causes and symptoms of night terrors, as well as steps to manage this condition, a person can feel better prepared to deal with it. If necessary, medical consultation can be the right step to deal with night terrors effectively. And it is necessary for medical personnel who are already professionals in this field.