Night terrors, also known as sleep terrors, are a type of parasomnia (an abnormal behavior during sleep) that occurs during non-REM sleep. They typically happen in the first third of the night, and often end with a sudden awakening and a feeling of terror or panic. Unlike nightmares, during which the individual is usually aware that they are dreaming, people with night terrors are often confused and disoriented upon waking up.

Night terrors most commonly affect children between the ages of 4 and 12, although they can occur at any age. Studies suggest that up to 15% of children experience night terrors, while only about 1-6% of adults do. Night terrors seem to run in families, and children with sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea, are more likely to experience them.

During a night terror episode, the individual may suddenly sit up in bed, scream or shout, thrash around, and have a rapid heartbeat and breathing. They may appear to be awake, but they are actually still in a deep sleep state. It is not uncommon for them to have a blank or empty expression, and sometimes they may not recognize their surroundings or the people around them. When they do finally wake up, they may not remember anything about the episode.

Night terrors can last anywhere from a few seconds to a few minutes. They usually end on their own, and attempts to wake the person up can be futile or even dangerous. The best thing to do is to wait for the episode to pass and ensure that the person is safe during the episode by guiding them back to bed if they are walking or moving, and keeping any sharp objects or other hazards out of their reach.

The exact cause of night terrors is not known. However, it is believed that they are triggered by a variety of factors, including stress, anxiety, sleep deprivation, and fever. Some medical conditions, such as asthma and heart disease, can also increase the risk of having night terrors. Furthermore, certain medications and substances, such as alcohol and drugs, can interfere with sleep and increase the likelihood of experiencing sleep terrors.

Night terrors can be alarming for both the person experiencing them and for their loved ones. For children who experience night terrors, parents can help to minimize the frequency and severity of episodes by establishing a consistent bedtime routine, ensuring their child gets enough sleep, and avoiding anything that might trigger an episode, such as scary movies or foods that cause indigestion. If night terrors persist and interfere with sleep or daily activities, a visit to a sleep specialist may be recommended.

For adults, treatment for night terrors may involve identifying and addressing underlying medical conditions, such as sleep apnea, depression, or anxiety. Medications may also be prescribed to help reduce the frequency and severity of episodes. In some cases, therapy may be recommended to help individuals better manage stress and anxiety, and learn techniques for coping with night terrors.

In conclusion, night terrors are a type of parasomnia that can occur during non-REM sleep. They are most common in children but can occur at any age. While the exact cause of night terrors is not known, they are believed to be triggered by a variety of factors, including stress, anxiety, and sleep deprivation. Treatment for night terrors can be challenging, but with proper care and management, episodes can be reduced and managed effectively. If you or someone you know experiences night terrors, talk to a healthcare provider to learn more about what steps you can take to help minimize and manage them.

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