Why Night Terrors Frighten Kids—and How Parents Can Help
Night terrors, a distressing sleep disorder, are episodes of intense fear and screaming that strike suddenly during deep sleep. Unlike nightmares, they occur in the first few hours of sleep and are often accompanied by profuse sweating, elevated heart rate, and confusion. While harmless, they can be alarming for both kids and parents.
Night terrors typically affect children aged 4 to 7, with some cases occurring between 2 to 6 years. They are a half-awakening, unlike nightmares that happen entirely during REM sleep. The exact causes are not fully understood, but they can be triggered by factors such as genetic predisposition, fever, sleep deprivation, emotional stress, or chronic burdens. Pediatricians, sleep researchers, and child psychiatrists study these episodes, which usually resolve by puberty.
There is no specific treatment for night terrors. However, alternative techniques like meditation, hypnosis, and yoga can complement psychological or psychiatric interventions. These disorders, along with sleepwalking, are among the most impactful on sleep quality and overall well-being.
Night terrors are a common childhood sleep disorder that can be frightening but are generally harmless. While their causes remain unclear, understanding and managing potential triggers can help. If the episodes persist or cause concern, it's important to consult a healthcare provider. Further research is needed to fully understand and treat these episodes.
