Research shows that up to 6% of children and a smaller percentage of adults experience night terrors, a sleep disorder that can be frightening for both the person experiencing them and their family. These episodes are more than just bad dreams; they are intense events that can cause significant distress and disrupt sleep.
At Bogan Sleep Consultants, our goal is to improve your quality of life through optimal sleep and reduce medical risk. We know how hectic life can be and are committed to making our practice in Columbia, SC, convenient and accessible. You can feel confident that when you choose our practice, you’re working with doctors and other professionals who are qualified, experienced, and caring. If you or a loved one is struggling, our team is here to help you find answers and effective solutions. Schedule your appointment today.
Let's explore five key things every Columbia resident should know about night terrors.
1. What Are Night Terrors?
Night terrors, also known as sleep terrors, are episodes of intense fear, screaming, and flailing while you are still asleep. These are a type of parasomnia, which is an undesirable behavior or experience that happens during sleep. Unlike a bad dream you can recall, night terrors occur during the deepest stage of non-REM sleep.
During an episode, a person might suddenly sit up in bed, shout, or show physical signs of panic, such as a racing heart, rapid breathing, and sweating. They may appear to be awake and terrified, but they are not fully conscious and are often difficult to comfort. These episodes typically last from a few seconds to several minutes, after which the person usually lies back down and continues sleeping, with no memory of the event the next morning.
2. Night Terrors vs. Nightmares: Key Differences
It's easy to confuse night terrors with nightmares, but they are very different experiences. Understanding these differences is crucial for identifying the problem and seeking the right help.
Sleep Stage:
- Night Terrors: Occur during deep non-REM (non-rapid eye movement) sleep, usually within the first few hours after falling asleep.
- Nightmares: Happen during REM sleep, the stage associated with vivid dreaming, typically later in the night or early morning.
Memory:
- Night Terrors: The individual almost never remembers the episode itself, though they might feel confused or groggy if woken up during it.
- Nightmares: The dreamer often wakes up and can vividly recall the frightening content of the dream.
Behavior:
- Night Terrors: Involve significant physical activity, such as screaming, thrashing, or even sleepwalking. The person is not truly awake and is unresponsive to comfort.
- Nightmares: The body is generally still due to muscle atonia during REM sleep. The person wakes up fully and is aware of their surroundings.
3. Common Causes and Triggers in Adults
While night terrors are more common in children, they can and do affect adults. Identifying the triggers is an important step toward managing and reducing their frequency.
Common causes and triggers for night terrors in adults include:
- Sleep Deprivation: Not getting enough quality sleep can significantly increase the likelihood of parasomnias.
- Stress and Anxiety: High levels of emotional stress or anxiety from work, relationships, or life events can disrupt sleep patterns.
- Fever or Illness: Being sick can interfere with normal sleep cycles.
- Irregular Sleep Schedule: A disrupted routine, such as from shift work or travel, can be a major trigger.
- Certain Medications: Some antidepressants, sedatives, or blood pressure medications can affect sleep architecture.
- Alcohol or Substance Use: Consuming alcohol too close to bedtime can fragment sleep and lead to these episodes.
4. The Link Between Stress, Anxiety, and Other Sleep Disorders
Stress and anxiety are major triggers for night terrors, as they keep your nervous system on high alert and disrupt sleep stages. Night terrors can also be a symptom of other sleep disorders like obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) or restless legs syndrome (RLS), which cause frequent awakenings and sleep fragmentation. If you snore loudly, stop breathing during sleep, or have a strong urge to move your legs, it's wise to get checked for these conditions.
5. When to Seek Professional Help in Columbia, SC
Occasional night terrors may not be a cause for alarm. However, you should consider seeking professional help from a sleep specialist if the episodes:
- Become more frequent or intense.
- Cause significant disruption to your or your family's sleep.
- Lead to safety concerns, such as injuring yourself or others during an episode.
- Result in excessive daytime sleepiness or difficulty functioning.
- Are accompanied by symptoms of another sleep disorder, like sleep apnea.
At Bogan Sleep Consultants, we specialize in diagnosing and treating all forms of parasomnia. We conduct thorough evaluations to identify the root cause of your sleep disturbances and create a personalized treatment plan, which may include improving sleep hygiene, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), or addressing an underlying medical condition.
Reclaim Your Restful Nights
Understanding the difference between night terrors and nightmares is the first step toward finding relief and achieving restful sleep. The team at Bogan Sleep Consultants is here to help you navigate the complexities of sleep disorders and find a solution that works for you.
Schedule an appointment with our sleep disorder specialists in Columbia, SC, to explore personalized treatment options for night terrors and improve your overall well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common symptoms of night terrors?
Symptoms include suddenly sitting upright, screaming, showing intense fear (sweating, rapid breathing), confusion, and being difficult to comfort. The person typically has no memory of the event.
How do night terrors differ from nightmares?
Night terrors occur during deep non-REM sleep, usually early in the night, with no memory. Nightmares happen during REM sleep, often in the morning, and are remembered vivid dreams.
What causes night terrors in adults?
Triggers include stress, anxiety, sleep deprivation, irregular sleep schedules, or underlying conditions like sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, or certain medications.
When should I seek professional help for night terrors?
Consult a specialist if terrors are frequent, cause safety concerns, severely disrupt sleep, or lead to significant daytime sleepiness/distress.
Can lifestyle changes help reduce night terrors?
Yes, lifestyle changes can help reduce night terrors. Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, a calming bedtime routine, and a comfortable sleep environment can stabilize sleep patterns.
