Here's a breakdown of the definition:
* Episodes: These are brief, intense episodes of fear and distress.
* Shouting, fear, and flailing: People with sleep terrors often scream, cry, thrash around, and appear terrified.
* Sleeping: Sleep terrors occur during the first few hours of sleep, usually in the deep sleep stage called NREM (non-rapid eye movement) sleep.
* No recollection: People who have sleep terrors usually don't remember the episode in the morning.
* Common in children: Sleep terrors are most common in children between ages 3-7. They are less common in adults but can still occur.
* Not nightmares: While they may sound similar, sleep terrors are distinct from nightmares. Nightmares occur during REM sleep, and people remember them vividly.
Key characteristics of sleep terrors:
* Sudden onset: The episodes start abruptly and are often accompanied by rapid breathing, sweating, and a racing heart.
* Intense fear: The person may appear terrified and confused, but they are actually asleep and unaware of their surroundings.
* Limited memory: People who have sleep terrors usually have no recollection of the event the next morning.
* No lasting harm: Sleep terrors are usually harmless and do not have any long-term effects on the individual.
Causes:
While the exact cause of sleep terrors is unknown, some contributing factors include:
* Genetics: Sleep terrors can run in families.
* Stress or anxiety: Sleep terrors may be triggered by stressful events or anxiety.
* Sleep deprivation: Being sleep-deprived can increase the risk of sleep terrors.
* Certain medications: Some medications can cause sleep terrors as a side effect.
If you or your child experience sleep terrors, it's important to see a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions and to discuss treatment options if needed.