What Should I Do If My Baby Has Night Terrors?

What Should I Do If My Baby Has Night Terrors?

Night terrors can be a distressing experience for both babies and their parents. Although they are more common in older children, babies as young as 18 months can also experience them[1]. Understanding what night terrors are, how to manage them, and when to seek help can make a significant difference in handling these episodes.

Understanding Night Terrors

Night terrors are a type of parasomnia, a sleep disorder that involves abnormal movements, behaviors, emotions, perceptions, and dreams. Sleep walking and talking in one’s sleep are other common examples of parasomnia. Unlike nightmares, which occur during REM sleep, night terrors happen during the transition from deep sleep to lighter sleep stages[2]. During a night terror, your baby might scream, sweat, thrash around, and have a rapid heartbeat, but they are not fully awake and will not remember the episode in the morning[1][2].

Causes and Triggers

The exact cause of night terrors is not well understood, but several factors can contribute to their occurrence. These include:

• Sleep Deprivation: Lack of adequate sleep can increase the likelihood of night terrors[2].

• Stress: Changes in routine, new environments, or emotional stress can trigger night terrors[2].

• Fever: High temperatures can disrupt sleep patterns and lead to night terrors[2].

• Genetics: There may be a hereditary component, as night terrors can run in families[2].

Managing Night Terrors

If your baby experiences night terrors, here are some steps you can take to manage them:

1. Stay Calm: It can be alarming to see your baby in distress, but try to remain calm. Your baby is not aware of what is happening and will not remember the episode.

2. Do Not Wake Them: Attempting to wake your baby during a night terror can prolong the episode and make it more intense. Instead, ensure they are safe and cannot hurt themselves.

3. Maintain a Consistent Sleep Schedule: Regular sleep routines can help reduce the frequency of night terrors. Ensure your baby gets enough sleep and has a consistent bedtime routine[2].

4. Create a Calm Sleep Environment: A quiet, dark, and cool room can promote better sleep. Consider using white noise machines to block out disruptive sounds.

5. Monitor for Patterns: Keep a sleep diary to track when night terrors occur. This can help identify potential triggers and patterns.

When to Seek Help

While night terrors are usually not a cause for concern, there are times when you should seek professional advice:

• Frequent Episodes: If night terrors happen multiple times a week, it may be worth consulting a pediatrician.

• Safety Concerns: If your baby is at risk of hurting themselves during an episode, seek guidance on how to create a safer sleep environment.

• Sleep Deprivation: If your baby is not getting sufficient sleep, consult a baby sleep consultant to help you guide your baby to healthy sleeping habits.

Conclusion

Night terrors can be unsettling, but they are generally harmless, and your baby will likely outgrow them. Remember, you are not alone in this, and with the right approach, you can help your baby navigate these challenging nights. Remain consistent and patient. If you have concerns or if the episodes become frequent, do not hesitate to seek professional advice.

[1]: Healthline [2]: Medical News Today

References

[1] Baby Night Terrors: Signs, What to Do, Prevention, and More - Healthline

[2] Night terrors in babies: Signs, causes, and treatment - Medical News Today