Parasomnia: Understanding Nightmares, Sleepwalking, and Other Sleep Disorders

Sleep is essential for overall health, but for some, it can be disrupted by parasomnias—a group of sleep disorders that involve abnormal behaviours, emotions, and movements during sleep. From nightmares and sleepwalking to sleep paralysis and night terrors, parasomnia can significantly impact a person’s quality of rest and daily life. If you or a loved one experiences these issues, it’s important to seek expert help. Dr. Kunal Bahrani, a leading Sleep Disorder Treatment Doctor in Faridabad, specializes in diagnosing and treating sleep disorders to restore healthy sleep patterns.

What is Parasomnia?

Parasomnia refers to unusual sleep behaviors that occur while falling asleep, during sleep, or while waking up. These disorders can be distressing and even dangerous, as they may involve movements or actions that put the person or others at risk.

Types of Parasomnias

1. Nightmares – Vivid, disturbing dreams that cause anxiety and often wake the person up.
2. Sleepwalking (Somnambulism) – Walking or performing activities while asleep, with no memory of it.
3. Night Terrors – Sudden episodes of fear, screaming, and intense panic, usually in children.
4. Sleep Paralysis – Temporary inability to move or speak when falling asleep or waking up, often accompanied by hallucinations.
5. REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD) – Acting out dreams physically, which may include punching, kicking, or talking.
6. Confusional Arousals – Waking up in a disoriented state, often with slurred speech and unclear thinking.

Causes of Parasomnia

Parasomnia can be triggered by several factors, including:

• Stress and Anxiety – Mental health issues can lead to frequent nightmares and sleep disturbances.
• Sleep Deprivation – Lack of sleep can worsen parasomnia symptoms.
• Medications – Certain drugs, especially antidepressants, may cause unusual sleep behaviours
• Alcohol and Substance Use – These can disrupt sleep patterns and contribute to parasomnia.
• Neurological Disorders – Conditions like Parkinson’s disease and epilepsy may increase the risk.

Why is Parasomnia a Concern?

While occasional nightmares or sleepwalking episodes may not be harmful, frequent and severe parasomnia can lead to:

• Injuries from sleepwalking or acting out dreams
• Chronic sleep deprivation, leading to daytime fatigue
• Mental health issues like anxiety and depression
• Disruptions in relationships due to abnormal sleep behaviors

If you or someone in your family is experiencing these symptoms, consulting Dr. Kunal Bahrani, the Best Sleep Apnea Doctor in Faridabad, is the first step toward effective treatment.

Best Treatment for Parasomnia in Faridabad

1. Lifestyle Modifications

• Establish a relaxing bedtime routine
• Avoid alcohol and caffeine before sleep
• Maintain a consistent sleep schedule

2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT helps manage stress, anxiety, and negative thoughts that contribute to sleep disturbances.

3. Medication

In some cases, doctors may prescribe sleep aids or medications to control symptoms, such as melatonin for REM sleep behavior disorder.

4. Treating Underlying Conditions

If parasomnia is linked to a neurological disorder or sleep apnea, treating the root cause can improve symptoms. Dr. Kunal Bahrani, a Sleep Disorder Treatment Doctor in Faridabad, provides personalized treatment plans to help patients regain healthy sleep.

Consult Dr. Kunal Bahrani for Expert Sleep Disorder Care

If sleep disturbances are affecting your health and well-being, don’t wait for them to worsen. Dr. Kunal Bahrani, the Best Sleep Apnea Doctor in Faridabad, offers advanced diagnosis and treatment options to help you achieve restful, uninterrupted sleep.