Night terrors

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Definition Symptoms Causes Risk factors When to seek medical advice

Tests and diagnosis Complications Treatments and drugs Lifestyle and home remedies

Definition

Nightmares are a nearly universal experience for young children. A few kids experience more-intense scary dreams known as night terrors.

Kids who have nightmares typically wake up frightened and look for reassurance, eager to share vivid details of their scary dreams. Kids who have night terrors may scream and thrash about, but remain sound asleep. They probably won't remember anything about the night terrors in the morning.

Night terrors are relatively rare, affecting only a small percentage of kids — often between ages 4 and 12. However frightening, night terrors aren't usually cause for concern. Most kids outgrow night terrors by adolescence. In the meantime, your calming presence and gentle reassurance can help your child get a good night's sleep.

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Symptoms