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Night Terrors (Parasomnia) in Children

Sudden arousal episodes from non-REM sleep with intense fear and autonomic activation.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

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What is Night Terrors (Parasomnia) in Children?

Night terrors (sleep terrors, pavor nocturnus) are non-REM parasomnias characterized by sudden arousal from deep sleep (stages N3) with intense fear, autonomic activation (tachycardia, sweating, dilated pupils), screaming, and inconsolable behavior. The child appears awake but is not, with no recall the next morning.

Episodes typically occur in the first third of the night, last 1-15 minutes, and resolve spontaneously. They affect 1-6% of children, usually between ages 3-12, with peak prevalence at 5-7 years. They are distinct from nightmares (REM, recalled, later in night).

Triggers include sleep deprivation, fever, stress, irregular sleep schedule, and obstructive sleep apnea. Most cases resolve by adolescence. Management focuses on sleep hygiene, addressing triggers, and parental reassurance. Pharmacotherapy is rare and reserved for severe cases.

Symptoms

Sudden screaming or crying from sleep
Sitting up with terrified expression
Rapid breathing and heart rate
Sweating and dilated pupils
Inconsolable, unresponsive to comfort
Episode in first third of night
No recall the following morning

Risk Factors

Family history of parasomnia
Sleep deprivation or irregular schedule
Fever and acute illness
Obstructive sleep apnea
Stress and anxiety
Restless legs syndrome
Some medications (sedatives)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Frequent or violent night terror episodes
  • Episodes causing injury
  • Persistence into adolescence
  • Daytime sleepiness or behavioral issues
  • Suspected obstructive sleep apnea
  • Family distress requiring guidance

Treatment Methods

01
Sleep hygiene optimization
02
Address sleep deprivation
03
Avoid waking child during episodes
04
Treat underlying sleep apnea or fever
05
Scheduled awakenings for severe cases
06
Parental reassurance and education
07
Pharmacotherapy (benzodiazepines) for refractory cases

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.