Adult night terrors, also known as sleep terrors or pavor nocturnus, refer to a sleep disorder that primarily affects adults. It is characterized by episodes of intense fear, panic, or terror during sleep, usually occurring in the first few hours of sleep. This disorder falls under the umbrella of parasomnias, which are a group of sleep disorders that involve abnormal behaviors, movements, perceptions, and emotions.
During an episode of adult night terrors, individuals may abruptly awaken from sleep, frequently screaming or yelling, and exhibit signs of extreme fear or distress. They may appear to be in a state of confusion, often sweating heavily and having rapid breathing and an increased heart rate. However, unlike nightmares, individuals experiencing night terrors are usually unable to recall any specific dream or content from the episode.
These episodes can be distressing for both the individual experiencing them and their sleep partner. Adult night terrors are thought to be caused by a disruption in the sleep cycle, specifically during the transition between deep non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep and wakefulness. Factors that may contribute to the occurrence of adult night terrors include sleep deprivation, stress, anxiety, alcohol consumption, medication, and certain medical conditions.
The treatment of adult night terrors often involves addressing any underlying causes or triggers, improving sleep hygiene, managing stress levels, and, in severe cases, the administration of medications. Consulting with a healthcare professional, such as a sleep specialist or a psychiatrist, is recommended for proper diagnosis and treatment of adult night terrors to help improve sleep quality and reduce the frequency and severity of the episodes.
