Sleep terrors refer to terror during sleep. Patients may suddenly sit up during sleep and then scream. They have tense and fearful facial expressions, shortness of breath, and increased heart rate. Sometimes they have hallucinations. They have hazy consciousness. It lasts for 1-2 minutes and they fall asleep again. After they wake up in the morning, they cannot remember the attack. Sleep terrors are common in children. Boys are slightly more affected than girls. For most children it will disappear after they grow up. To treat or prevent sleep terrors, the daily life should be arranged regularly. They should not be too tired and excited during the day. Do not read exciting stories and watch adventurous or thrilling movies before bedtime. Do not force children go to bed using threat. Benzodiazepine drugs can be used if necessary.
How is Sleep terrors (night terrors) treated in practice?