Parasomnias Overview

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Definition

Parasomnias are a wide range of sleep disorders. They tend to be abnormal behavior that happen when entering sleep, during sleep, and very often during arousals.

Parasomnias are common and often appear with other sleep disorders like obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

While common, parasomnias are not associated with psychosis. During parasomnia episodes basic human impulses can arise. Such as aggression, the drive to eat, and sex.

NREM (non-rapid eye movement) Parasomnias

Common in childhood but decrease with age. Can be triggered by alcohol, sleep deprivation, exhaustion, stress, depression, reaction to medications.

Disorders Associated with NREM Sleep

Somnambulism (Sleep Walking)

Sexsomnia (Sleep Sex)

Confusional Arousals

Night Terrors

REM (rapid eye movement) Parasomnias

REM Parasomnias are occur during the REM stage of sleep. Injuries such as scratches and bruises can occur due to acting out of dreams.

REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD) is most common in men over fifty years old and is often associated with neurodegenerative disorders.

Disorders Associated with REM Sleep

REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD)

Recurrent Isolated Sleep Paralysis

Nightmare Disorder

Narcolepsy

Other Parasomnias

Sleep Related Eating Disorder (SRED)

Circadian Rhythm Sleep Disorders

Nocturnal Enuresis (Bed Wetting)

Rhythmic Movement Disorder

Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS)

Exploding Head Syndrome

Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)

Somnambulism

Somniloquy

Insomnia