Night Terrors

Night terrors, or sleep terrors, are a type of sleep disorder that typically affect children but can occur in adults as well. During an episode, a person may suddenly awaken in a state of extreme fear, often screaming or thrashing but usually without memory of the event afterward. Unlike nightmares, which occur during REM sleep and are vividly remembered, night terrors arise from deeper stages of sleep. They can be triggered by stress, sleep deprivation, or certain medications. Though distressing for both the individual and their family, night terrors are generally not harmful and often diminish with age.