Parasomnias are unusual behaviors occurring during sleep. They start during childhood and tend to resolve during the same time period, however, some parasomnias persist into adulthood. Fortunately, most parasomnias are not harmful and often don’t require treatment.

In my last blog post found here, I reviewed the different types of parasomnias and the triggers. In this post, we will discuss how and when to treat parasomnias.

It is often hilarious to hear children talking in their sleep. However, it could be an alarming event if you are awakened to their shrill cry or in full-blown sleep terror. These behaviors are called parasomnias, a term used to describe unusual behaviors occurring during sleep.

These events disturb parents’ sleep more than the kids, as most children do not recall the episodes. Parasomnias are experienced before falling asleep, during sleep, and at periods of arousal from sleep. These events are seen frequently in children and can be seen in up to 17% of young children aged 3 to 13 years. Older children experience parasomnias less often, although some may persist into adulthood.