Adult Pavor Nocturnus, also known as adult night terrors, is a parasomnia disorder characterized by sudden and intense episodes of fear or terror during sleep. It primarily affects adults, distinguishing it from the more common childhood counterpart, typically referred to as night terrors. This disorder is marked by a partial awakening from deep non-rapid eye movement (non-REM) sleep, causing the individual to experience extreme anxiety, panic, confusion, and even physical manifestations such as increased heart rate and sweating.
During an episode of Adult Pavor Nocturnus, the affected person may exhibit vocalizations such as screaming or shouting, which can be distressing for both the individual and any sleep partners. Although the person appears to be awake, they usually have no memory of the episode upon fully awakening. These episodes may last anywhere from a few seconds to a few minutes, after which the person often returns to a deep sleep.
The exact cause of Adult Pavor Nocturnus is not fully understood. However, certain factors may contribute to its occurrence, including high levels of stress, sleep deprivation, certain medications, as well as psychological and neurological disorders. Treatment for this disorder can involve addressing the underlying conditions that may be triggering the episodes, along with improving sleep hygiene and reducing stress levels. If necessary, medications such as benzodiazepines or antidepressants may be prescribed to help manage symptoms.
Overall, Adult Pavor Nocturnus is a sleep disorder characterized by sudden and intense episodes of fear or terror during sleep, causing distress and disruptions in sleep patterns.
