When a child begins screaming in the middle of the night, inconsolable but remaining asleep, he is experiencing a sleep terror. These episodes can be greatly distressing for those witnessing them, but they often do not require treatment.
Sleep terrors are a type of parasomnia that typically affects children, though it can also be seen in adults, however less commonly. It is estimated that 1% to 6% of children experience night terrors.
Aside from intense fear and inconsolable crying, children having a sleep terror may also have a fast heart or breathing rate. There is usually a significant emotional component that may manifest in various ways, including:
- Anxiety
- Panic
- Gasping
- Moaning
- Screaming
Sleep terrors arise from non-rapid eye movement or slow-wave sleep during the first few hours of sleep. As this is a deep stage of sleep, it will often be very difficult to wake the child, and he will be confused once awake.
Though it may seem impossible, these episodes are usually not remembered by the child the next morning.
How Do I Know if My Child Is Experiencing True Night Terrors?
Your child's doctor will ask questions about sleep experiences and medical history. That, combined with a polysomnogram -- a sleep study -- will help him reach a diagnosis. Children experiencing night terrors will show arousals from slow-wave sleep when tested.In many cases, treatment is not necessary. You'll likely leave your child's doctor's office with nothing more than reassurance that the scary nighttime events are nothing to be concerned about. Though that may seem unsatisfying at first, it's important to remember that -- though upsetting to you -- these events are not affecting your child's health.
If it seems that your child experiencing night terrors after doing something in particular during the day, it can be helpful to avoid those things. Also, behavioral therapy, such as scheduled awakenings to disrupt slow-wave sleep, may be of benefit. Let a doctor guide you in this.
If the episodes are quite severe and disruptive, medications such as benzodiazepines and tricyclic antidepressants may be used.
Source:
Mowzoon, N et al. "Neurology of Sleep Disorders." Neurology Board Review: An Illustrated Guide. 2007; 738.
