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Specific disorders

	Sleep apnea
	Insomnia
	Narcolepsy
	Snoring
	Drowsy driving
	Night terrors
	Restless legs syndrome

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	Related conditions   - Sleep apnea   - Insomnia   - Narcolepsy   - Restless leg syndrome   - Snoring

Night terrors

Night terrors (parasomnias) are the most extreme and dramatic of arousal disorders and the most distressing to witness.

A night terror episode can often begin with a loud scream or shout, and can produce signs that suggest extreme terror, such as dilated pupils, rapid breathing, racing heart, sweating and extreme agitation. The victim may jump out of bed and run around the room or even out of the house. It is possible during the course of a night terror episode that the person could hurt themselves or others.

Children who experience night terrors do not typically need a medical evaluation. However, medical attention should be sought if these episodes cause potentially dangerous behavior, an extreme household disturbance or excessive sleepiness during the day. Because night terrors are relatively uncommon after childhood, adults suffering from this disorder should consult a physician or sleep specialist.

Some keys to reducing the occurrence of night terrors include practicing a regular sleep schedule, establishing relaxing pre-sleep rituals, getting regular exercise, avoiding caffeine before bedtime and using sleeping pills conservatively.