The cause is unknown, but a family history of the disorder is found in a third or more of the people who have it. Benzodiazepine drugs taken at bedtime sometimes bring relief. Night terrors are frightening episodes during which a person screams, flails about, and often sleepwalks. These episodes usually arise during non-REM phases of the sleep cycle. Treatment with benzodiazepines, such as diazepam, may be helpful.
Nightmares are vivid, frightening dreams that affect children and adults.
The dreams are followed by sudden awakening. Nightmares occur during REM sleep and are more common during periods of stress, fever, or excessive fatigue or after alcohol consumption. No specific treatment is available. Sleepwalkers may mumble repetitiously and can hurt themselves by walking into obstacles. Most sleepwalkers have no memory of sleepwalking.