A night terror is a sleep disorder characterized by the frequent and recurring episodes of extreme terror and a temporary inability to regain full consciousness while sleeping. Night terrors most commonly affect children, although adults may suffer from them as well. A typical night terror usually happens within the first hour of sleep with the episode lasting from five to twenty minutes. The sufferer will sit up or appear to awaken with screams, moans, cries or gasps. The person will seem to be awake but will be unresponsive to stimuli, people or activity in the room and usually does not talk. Heart rate may increase. Rapid breathing and perspiration may be observed.
Some causes for Night Terrors:
- High amounts of stress form the previous day
- High fever
- Constipation
- Improper diet
- Lack of sleep
- Recent trauma
- Anxiety or depression
- Abuse