Do I Have Sleep Terror Disorder?

Do you partially or fully awake from sleep very suddenly?

Do you scream or thrash during sleep?

Do you experience an intense fear or terror from an unknown source during sleep?

Are you breathing rapidly during sleep?

Do you have a racing heart during sleep?

Do you experience elevated blood pressure during sleep?

Do you experience sweating during sleep?

Based on your answers, it is unlikely that you have sleep terror disorder. Sleep terrors are a type of sleep disorder in which a person partially awakens from sleep in a state of terror. Sleep terrors are not the same as nightmares. Because the person may still be half asleep during a sleep terror, they can be unaware of their environment. They may also not remember the episode when they awaken. The cause of sleep terrors is still unknown, but it can be the result of lack of sleep or high stress levels. Sleep terrors are usually not a reason for concern, but they may require treatment if they cause problems getting enough sleep or dangerous situations.

While it is unlikely that you have sleep terror disorder, you are displaying some signs related to it. Sleep terrors are episodes of intense fear and flailing while asleep. Sleep terrors are different from nightmares. If someone has a nightmare he may wake up and remember details, but a person who has a sleep terror remains asleep and may not remember the episode. Usually treatment for infrequent sleep terrors is not needed. However, if the sleep terrors are disruptive to family members, result in sleep disruption or lead to injury, treatment may be needed. It usually consists of eliminating triggers and promoting safety.

Unfortunately, you are displaying the symptoms typically seen among individuals who have sleep terror disorder. It may be essential to discuss this with your doctor. Sleep terrors are a form of sleep disorder in which someone partially awakens from sleep in a state of terror. To reduce the frequency of sleep terrors, you may create a calm and safe environment in your bedroom. Besides, you may incorporate a relaxation routine before going to bed and make sure that you get enough sleep. It is also important to know how to deal with stressors in your life. Therapy may be helpful.