Sleep terrors [night terrors]
ICD-10 F51.4 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of sleep terrors [night terrors].
Sleep terrors, commonly referred to as night terrors, are a type of parasomnia characterized by episodes of intense fear, screaming, and thrashing during sleep, typically occurring in children but can also affect adults. These episodes usually occur during non-REM sleep, often within the first few hours of falling asleep. Individuals experiencing sleep terrors may appear awake but are actually in a deep state of sleep and are often unresponsive to attempts to comfort them. The episodes can last from a few seconds to several minutes and may be accompanied by physical signs such as rapid heartbeat, sweating, and dilated pupils. Unlike nightmares, which occur during REM sleep and can be recalled upon waking, individuals typically have no memory of the event after the episode concludes. Sleep terrors can be triggered by factors such as sleep deprivation, stress, fever, or certain medications. While they are generally benign and may resolve with age, persistent cases may require further evaluation and management to address underlying issues or coexisting sleep disorders.
Detailed sleep history, including frequency and duration of episodes, triggers, and any associated symptoms.
Patients presenting with recurrent episodes of night terrors, often reported by parents or caregivers.
Consideration of comorbid sleep disorders and the impact of sleep hygiene on treatment.
Thorough developmental history and parental reports of sleep behavior.
Children with frequent night terrors, often requiring reassurance and education for parents.
Monitoring for potential psychological stressors or sleep deprivation in the child.
Used to evaluate sleep disorders, including sleep terrors.
Detailed sleep history and referral notes indicating the need for sleep study.
Sleep specialists should ensure comprehensive evaluation of sleep architecture.
Common triggers for sleep terrors include sleep deprivation, stress, fever, and certain medications. Identifying and managing these triggers can help reduce the frequency of episodes.
