Signs of Night terrors

Description

A sleep disorder in which a person quickly awakens from sleep in a terrified state. They are temporarily unable to regain consciousness during the event. There is associated gasping or screaming, and only rarely does the person remember the event. Night terrors typically occur when a person is awakened in slow wave sleep and the event s occur with the patient is in REM (rapid eye movement) sleep. They are most common in children aged 2-6 and affect approximately 1-6% of all children. The disorder generally resolves during the teenage years.

Symptoms

Typically occurs 90 minutes after falling asleep, the patient sits up and screams, appears awake but is confused. The patient cannot be awakened and may experience a fast heart rate, fast breathing, and sweating. The episodes usually lasts 1-2 minutes.

Tests

A history and physical exam will be performed. In many cases, no further examination or testing is needed. If the night terror is severe or prolonged, the child may need a psychological evaluation.

Treatment

Most cases can be treated with reassurance and by preventing the patient from becoming over tired. Avoiding constipation can also reduce the events. Some cases require psychotherapy or counseling, and rarely medications such as a benzodiazepine (Valium) will be used.