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Understanding Parasomnias: From Sleepwalking to Night Terrors

Explore the strange and often misunderstood world of sleep behaviors. Sleep is meant to be a time of rest and recovery. But for some, nighttime can bring...

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Dr. Poonam Natarajan27 June 20253 min read

Explore the strange and often misunderstood world of sleep behaviors. Sleep is meant to be a time of rest and recovery. But for some, nighttime can bring about confusing, disruptive, or even frightening behaviors, a group of sleep disorders collectively known as parasomnias.

At Remesleep, we specialize in identifying and managing sleep conditions like parasomnias with a combination of advanced diagnostics, expert-led care, and personalized treatment plans.

What Are Parasomnias?

Parasomnias are unwanted physical events or experiences that occur during sleep, as you’re falling asleep, or while waking up. These can include movements, emotions, perceptions, or vocalizations.

Common parasomnias include:

  • Sleepwalking (Somnambulism)
  • Night Terrors
  • Sleep Talking (Somniloquy)
  • Remesleep Behavior Disorder (acting out dreams)
  • Confusional Arousals
  • Sleep Paralysis

While often harmless, parasomnias can sometimes pose safety risks to the sleeper or others and interfere with healthy sleep cycles.

Causes & Triggers of Parasomnias

Parasomnias can affect both children and adults and may be triggered or worsened by:

  • Sleep deprivation
  • Stress or anxiety
  • Medications or alcohol
  • Irregular sleep schedule
  • Underlying sleep disorders(like sleep apnea)
  • Genetic predisposition

Understanding Specific Types of Parasomnias

Sleepwalking

The sleeper walks or performs complex behaviors while still in a sleep state. They often don’t remember the episode.

Night Terrors

Often occurring in children, the sleeper may scream, sit up suddenly, and appear terrified, but usually doesn’t fully awaken or remember the event.

Sleep Talking

This may involve mumbled or coherent speech and usually isn’t harmful, but can be a symptom of deeper sleep disturbances.

RemeSleep Behavior Disorder

The person physically acts out vivid, sometimes violent dreams, potentially injuring themselves or a bed partner.

Diagnosis & Treatment: What You Can Do

If you or a loved one experiences unusual nighttime behaviors, don’t ignore them. Getting a proper diagnosis is key.

What You Can Do:

  • Maintain a regular sleep routine
  • Avoid alcohol or sedatives
  • Reduce stress through relaxation techniques
  • Create a safe sleep environment
  • Consult a sleep specialist for evaluation and diagnosis

Why Choose Remesleep?

At Remesleep, we offer a comprehensive, medically backed approach to sleep care. We don’t treat symptoms, we uncover the root cause.

What makes us different:

  • Home-Based Sleep Studies: No hospital stays. Get tested in your natural sleep environment.

  • Expert Sleep Doctors: Personalized analysis by specialists in parasomnias and sleep behavior.

  • Detailed Sleep Reports: We don’t just say

    “you didn’t sleep well” we tell you

    why and how to fix it.

  • Custom Treatment Plans: Whether it’s therapy, medication, or behavioral support, your care is designed just for you.

Medical Review

Reviewed by sleep specialists

Dr. Poonam Natarajan

Dr. Poonam Natarajan

MD Pulmonary Medicine, MBBS

Sleep Medicine Specialist - 18+ years of experience

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Dr. Subramanian Natarajan – Sleep Specialist at RemeSleep

Dr. Subramanian Natarajan

Chest Physician & Pulmonologist

Sleep Apnea & Respiratory Medicine - 20+ years of experience

View Profile

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