Parasomnias

Definition

Parasomnias are disruptive sleep disorders that include abnormal movements, behaviors, emotions, perceptions, and dreams. These events occur during transitions between different stages of sleep or from sleep to wakefulness.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Parasomnias can be categorized into NREM-related and REM-related disorders.
2. Common NREM parasomnias include sleepwalking and night terrors.
3. Common REM parasomnias include REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD) and nightmares.
4. Pharmacologic treatments for parasomnias often involve benzodiazepines or antidepressants.
5. Non-pharmacologic treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) may also be effective in managing parasomnias.

Review Questions

• What are the two main categories of parasomnias?
• Name a pharmacologic treatment commonly used for parasomnias.
• Describe one non-pharmacologic treatment option for managing parasomnias.

Related terms

NREM Sleep: A type of sleep characterized by slower brain waves and divided into several stages.

REM Sleep: A stage of sleep characterized by rapid eye movement, more vivid dreaming, and muscle atonia.

Benzodiazepines: A class of drugs primarily used to treat anxiety but also prescribed for certain sleep disorders.