Sleep Terrors
A non-REM sleep arousal disorder involving abrupt episodes of terror during sleep, often with a scream, intense fear, and no memory of the episode.
Overview
Sleep terrors, a type of non-REM sleep arousal disorder, involve recurrent episodes of abrupt terror arousal from sleep, usually beginning with a panicked scream, accompanied by intense fear and signs of autonomic arousal, with little or no memory of the episode afterward.
Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms can include sudden screaming, sweating, rapid heartbeat, and being difficult to console or wake, typically occurring during the first third of the night. Experiencing one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean that a person has this condition. Diagnosis requires an appropriate clinical evaluation.
Causes and Risk Factors
Sleep terrors are more common in children and can be triggered by sleep deprivation, fever, or stress; family history is a notable risk factor.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis should be made by a qualified healthcare professional following a comprehensive clinical assessment. Clinicians may use established diagnostic frameworks such as DSM-5-TR and/or ICD-11 as part of a comprehensive assessment.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the individual’s symptoms, clinical history, severity, age, co-occurring conditions, and other relevant factors.
Psychotherapy
Ensuring adequate, consistent sleep and reducing known triggers are the primary management strategies.
Living With Sleep Terrors
Remaining calm and ensuring safety during an episode, rather than attempting to fully wake the individual, is generally recommended.
When to Seek Professional Help
Professional evaluation may be appropriate if symptoms persist, worsen, cause significant distress, or interfere with work, school, or relationships.
Outlook
Sleep terrors are common in childhood and typically resolve with age.
Related Conditions
Medical Information Disclaimer
Ratel Health provides general educational information and does not provide medical diagnosis, treatment, or individualized medical advice. Information on this page is not a substitute for evaluation or care from a qualified healthcare professional. Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or another person, or to start, stop, or change treatment or medication without consulting an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.
References
- American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR).
- National Institute of Mental Health.
- World Health Organization. International Classification of Diseases, 11th Revision.