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are night terrors a sleep disorder ?

### Are Night Terrors a Sleep Disorder?

Sleep, a necessity for our physical and mental well-being, is a complex process consisting of various stages. However, for some people, a peaceful night’s sleep can be disrupted by episodes known as night terrors, also referred to as sleep terrors. These episodes are a type of parasomnia, a category of sleep disorders characterized by unusual or undesirable physical activities or experiences during sleep.

#### Understanding Night Terrors

Night terrors are episodes of screaming, intense fear, and flailing limbs, and occur while a person is still asleep, typically in the deepest stage of non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep, often within the first few hours after falling asleep. Contrary to nightmares, which happen during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep and can be remembered, a person experiencing night terrors usually cannot recall the episode the next morning.

An important point to understand is that night terrors and nightmares are often conflated, but they are distinct phenomena, occurring at different stages of sleep and affecting the sleep cycle differently.

#### Night Terrors as a Sleep Disorder

So, are night terrors a sleep disorder? Absolutely. They are grouped under parasomnias, which also include conditions such as sleepwalking and sleep-related eating disorder. These disorders can disrupt the sleep process and cause significant distress, especially for individuals experiencing episodes and those affected by the episodes, usually family members or roommates. While night terrors can happen to anyone, they are more commonly observed in children, yet they can persist into adulthood or reoccur in adults with possible triggers including stress, sleep deprivation, or the development of another sleep disorder.

#### Symptomatology

The symptoms of night terrors are quite intense and may include:

– Sudden screams or shouts during sleep
– Intense fear and anxiety
– Physical movements such as thrashing and kicking
– Increased heart rate, sweating, and rapid breathing

Interestingly, once a night terror episode ends, the individual often has no recollection of the event. This can be particularly distressing and confusing for the person experiencing the episodes, especially if they occur repeatedly and disrupt the nightly routine.

#### Diagnosis and Treatment

According to the Mayo Clinic, the diagnosis of night terrors can be tricky as the recollection is minimal or non-existent, which makes the clinical evaluation and diagnosis largely reliant on second-hand accounts of the person experiencing the episodes.

Treatment for night terrors generally focuses on addressing the underlying causes and triggers. This can involve creating a safe and soothing bedtime routine, establishing regular sleep schedules, managing stress, and sometimes therapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy. In some instances, if the night terrors are significant and persistent, healthcare providers may recommend medications.

#### Conclusion

In conclusion, night terrors are classified as a sleep disorder under the broad category of parasomnias. They can be disconcerting both for the individual experiencing them and for family members. It’s crucial for those affected to speak with a healthcare professional to understand the underlying reasons and seek appropriate treatment.

If left untreated, persistent night terrors can have a significant impact on one’s quality of life and mental health. Recognizing them as a type of sleep disorder is a step towards understanding the complexities of sleep, and fostering a healthier, more peaceful sleep environment.

If you or someone you know displays symptoms associated with night terrors, it is important to consult with a sleep specialist or healthcare provider to get a proper diagnosis and start the appropriate treatment journey.