Sleep terror disorder, also known as night terrors or pavor nocturnus, is a parasomnia sleep disorder characterized by sudden episodes of intense fear or terror during sleep. It falls under the category of non-rapid eye movement (NREM) parasomnias, which occur during deep sleep stages and are often accompanied by physiological symptoms such as increased heart rate, sweating, and dilated pupils.
Individuals with sleep terror disorder typically experience these episodes shortly after falling asleep or during the first part of the night, but they may also occur during spontaneous arousals later in the sleep cycle. During a sleep terror episode, the person might suddenly sit up or bolt upright in bed, usually screaming or shouting in fear. They may appear confused, disoriented, and exhibit signs of intense fear, sometimes even exhibiting mild aggression toward others or physically.
While the exact causes of sleep terror disorder remain unclear, several factors are thought to contribute to its development, including genetics, sleep deprivation, stress, and certain medications. Sleep terror disorder can affect people of all ages, but it is more common in children. Most individuals outgrow this disorder as they reach adolescence or adulthood.
Although sleep terror disorder can cause distress and disrupt the sleep of both the individual experiencing it and their bed partner, treatments such as regular sleep schedules, stress reduction techniques, and addressing underlying factors may help manage this condition. Consulting a healthcare professional is recommended for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management strategies.
