What is Parasomnia?

Parasomnia is a general term for a undesirable physical event or experience that occurs as you are falling asleep, during sleep or during arousals from sleep.

Parasomnias can include sleepwalking, waking up confused, talking in your sleep and even grinding your teeth. Sleep terrors, nightmares, bedwetting and crying out during sleep are also considered parasomnias.

These events are common during childhood and generally occur more infrequently as you age. They rarely require treatment. However, if you or someone you love is being put in danger or not receiving the rest they need due to parasomniam, medical attention may be needed. An overnight sleep study may be a helpful diagnostic tool for your physician.