PARASOMNIA

The term “parasomnia” is used in reference to a wide range of disruptive sleep-related events. These behaviors and experiences generally occur during sleep, and in most case are infrequent and mild.  At times, however, they may occur often enough or become so bothersome that medical attention is indicated.

What are Disorders of Arousal?

The most common of the parsimonias are “disorders of arousal” which include Confusional arousals
Sleepwalking (somnambulism)
Sleep terror

Parasomnias are very common in young children and do not usually indicate significant psychiatric or psychological problems.

Such disorders tend to run in families, and can be more severe when a child is overly tired, has a fever, or is taking certain medications. Then may occur during periods of stress, and may increase or decrease with “good” and “bad” weeks.