Nightmares or sleep terrors
Nightmares and sleep terrors are sleep disturbances characterized by intense, frightening experiences during the night, often leading to abrupt awakenings and emotional distress.
Causes:
- Psychological Factors: Anxiety, stress, trauma, or underlying mental health conditions.
- Nightmares: Occur during REM (rapid eye movement) sleep and are vivid, disturbing dreams.
- Sleep Terrors (Night Terrors): Episodes of intense fear or panic, often accompanied by physical manifestations, during non-REM sleep.
Symptoms:
- Nightmares: Disturbing dreams causing fear, anxiety, and often waking the individual.
- Sleep Terrors: Sudden arousal with intense fear, often accompanied by screaming, thrashing, or other physical movements.
Treatment at Sleep Matters MD:
Our approach to addressing nightmares or sleep terrors at Sleep Matters MD involves a comprehensive evaluation to identify and treat the underlying causes:
- Diagnostic Assessments: Thorough examinations, including sleep studies at home or in the lab, to understand the specific nature and triggers of nightmares or sleep terrors.
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Addressing underlying psychological factors contributing to nightmares through therapy.
- Stress Management Techniques: Incorporating stress-reduction practices to alleviate anxiety and reduce the frequency of disturbing dreams.
- Medication Management: In some cases, targeted medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms or underlying causes.
- Creating a Relaxing Sleep Environment: Implementing strategies to create a calm and comforting sleep environment.
Regular follow-up appointments help gauge the effectiveness of the chosen treatment plan, with adjustments made as needed. Our team at Sleep Matters MD is dedicated to providing ongoing support, empowering individuals to manage nightmares or sleep terrors, and achieve more restful and peaceful sleep.
If you are experiencing nightmares or sleep terrors, schedule a consultation with Sleep Matters MD. Our specialists are here to provide personalized and comprehensive care tailored to your specific needs, helping you achieve more serene and undisturbed nights.