Night terrors, also known as “sleep terrors,” are parasomnia that can cause intense reactions such as screaming, crying, heavy breathing, increased heart rate, sweating, staring, sitting up in bed, thrashing, or waving of limbs. These episodes can be so severe that it’s difficult to wake the person, and upon waking, they may remain disoriented and hard to comfort. While night terrors usually last only a few minutes, they can sometimes persist, and the individual often has no memory of the event the next day.
Treatment for night terrors often focuses on resolving the underlying issue:
FATIGUE:
It may seem counterintuitive, but sleeping more can help eliminate night terrors in many cases. Try going to bed earlier or taking a short nap during the day.
STRESS:
If your night terrors stem from stress or anxiety, try implementing a calming nighttime routine. For example, you can take a warm bath, meditate, perform breathing exercises, or read a book before bed. Attending therapy may also help address the issues that are causing you stress in the first place.
SLEEP SCHEDULE CHANGES:
An inconsistent sleep schedule can contribute to night terrors, so try to sleep at the same time each night and wake up at the same time each morning.
In rare cases, night terror treatment may require medication to help you sleep. An experienced physician can recommend the best approach to your needs.
DO YOU STRUGGLE WITH NIGHT TERRORS?
If night terrors have become a recurring part of your life, rest assured I am here to help. I am well-versed in managing night terrors, and I understand the significant impact they can have on a person’s well-being. I acknowledge that each case is unique, and once I’ve gathered information about your situation, we will devise a personalized treatment plan together.
Contact me today to learn more about my services and arrange an appointment.
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