neurologic disorders
Parasomnias
Sleep (night) terrors
During the night, patients suddenly scream, flail, and appear to be frightened and intensely activated. Episodes can lead to sleepwalking. Patients are difficult to awaken. Sleep terrors are more common among children and occur when children are partially aroused or are awakened from N3 sleep; thus, they do not represent nightmares. In adults, sleep terrors can be associated with psychologic problems or alcohol use disorder. For children, parental reassurance is often the mainstay of treatment. If daily activities are affected (eg, if school work deteriorates), intermediate- or long-acting oral benzodiazepines (eg,clonazepam1 to 2 mg,diazepam2 to 5 mg) at bedtime may help, but these drugs have significant adverse effects. Adults may benefit from psychotherapy or drug treatment. 