PediatricsPediatrics
Sleep terrors
Sleep terrors
Night terror is a childhood sleep disorder characterized by sudden awakening from deep sleep with a series of symptoms due to intense fear. It manifests as suddenly sitting up, screaming, and crying after falling asleep, accompanied by rapid breathing and increased heart rate. After the episode subsides, the child continues to sleep. The frequency of episodes may gradually decrease with age.
Symptoms
It often occurs suddenly within 30 minutes to 2 hours after falling asleep.
During an episode, the child appears extremely terrified, suddenly panicking and screaming, accompanied by corresponding expressions and actions, such as rapid breathing and increased heart rate. It generally lasts for a few minutes.
If parents try to wake the child during an episode, they often initially show no response, and even if awakened, they appear confused.
The next day, the child has no memory of the night terror episode.
Causes
The exact cause of night terrors is not yet clear, but it may be related to the following factors.
Pathological factors
Lack of vitamin D or trace elements such as calcium and zinc can lead to symptoms of night terrors in children.
It may be related to certain cranial and cerebral diseases, neurological disorders, or mental illnesses.
Physiological factors
Immature development and regulatory function of the child's nervous system.
Improper diet, such as overeating or hunger, or consumption of stimulating beverages like coffee, strong tea, or cola.
Poor sleeping posture or physical discomfort.
Psychological factors
Excessive mental stress.
Mental tension, excitement, or fright during the day.
Children may fear sleep due to terrifying dreams, affecting their sleep state.
Environmental factors
Poor sleep environment, such as excessively bright lights, noisy surroundings, unsuitable temperature or humidity, or uncomfortable bedding.
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