How do I prevent night terrors?

I am told by my family that I yell, scream, cry, and swear terribly in my sleep. I don't know I am doing it. It's been going on for 10 years. I am embarrassed. Please help. I am a 62 year old female.

Doctors Answers (4)

Jeannine Louise Gingras, MD

Answered on: 4/5/2013 7

You are experiencing parasomnias-undesirable behaviors in sleep. There are many causes of Parasomnias. I recommend that you find a sleep professional to discuss.

J. Douglas Hudson, MD, DABSM

Answered on: 4/5/2013 6

Night terrors can often be eliminated or significantly reduced with medication taken at bedtime. Your physician can refer you to a sleep specialist who can prescribe the medication.

Daron Scherr, MD, DABSM

Answered on: 4/5/2013 1

A night terror is when the brain has difficulty switching from one stage of sleep to another; they are not nightmares. A very common reason to develop night terrors in middle-age is obstructive sleep apnea. I recommend talking with your health professional or contacting any sleep disorders facility for screening. A sleep study may be necessary to confirm the true diagnosis.