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Definition
Exploding Head Syndrome is a parasomnia which induces an interesting sensory experience. You suddenly hear an intense loud sound like an explosion or boom in your head. This happens right before sleep onset or right as the patient is waking up.
It is harmless in nature and there is no pain or physical response associated with it. Some people have some anxiety after an exploding head syndrome event and may experience fear, increased heart rate, shortness of breathe. Occasionally one will also see flashes of light.
Exploding Head Syndrome is most likely to occur with patients over the age of fifty and is most common with women.
Causes
Stress
Extreme Fatigue
Withdrawal from Prescription Drugs
Symptoms
Loud Sound in Head at Sleep Onset
Treatments
Clomipramine In Some Cases
Relaxation Techniques
Sleep Staging
Pre-Sleep Onset
Key Points
Sudden Loud Sound in Head
Anxiety Afterwards
Adrenal Rush
Harmless
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