Sleep Program Main PageNight terrors occur in 1% to 3% of children ages 1-14, mostly males. It occurs during deep sleep (stage 4). The child sits up screaming and is inconsolable. They may show symptoms of rapid heart rate, perspiration, vocalizations, distress, and glassy staring. The child typically won’t remember the incident afterward. Sometimes violent movements or sleep walking may be associated.
The cause of night terrors (Pavor Nocturnus) is unknown, although there are speculations ranging from trouble controlling aggressive emotions to difficulties with abrupt transition in and out of stage 4 sleep.
If the attacks only last around 3 or 4 months little treatment is necessary other than reducing obvious sources of stress. If the attacks last longer than that, then there may be a need to evaluate for anxiety.
Counseling for this seems to be effective when working on broader, more general issues rather than focusing on just the night terrors.
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