What causes nightmares during sleep?
Nov 28, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Zhiqin
Introduction
In general, having nightmares during sleep may be related to factors such as high stress, changes in sleep cycles, anxiety disorders, obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome, and depression. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention and follow the doctor's guidance to undergo general treatment, medication, and other therapeutic approaches. Establishing good sleep hygiene habits and avoiding caffeine intake at night may help reduce dreaming.
Generally, having nightmares during sleep may be related to factors such as high stress, changes in sleep cycles, anxiety disorders, obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome, and depression. It is recommended to seek timely medical consultation and follow the guidance of a physician to undergo general treatments, medication, and other therapies. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. High Stress
Stress from life or work can increase brain activity and elevate cortisol levels, leading to nightmares. Practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can help reduce stress.
2. Changes in Sleep Cycles
Disruptions in sleep cycles, such as staying up late or insufficient sleep, may also lead to frequent dreaming. When sleep cycles are disturbed, REM (rapid eye movement) sleep may occur more frequently or last longer, resulting in increased dreaming. Establishing good sleep hygiene habits, such as avoiding electronic devices before bedtime and maintaining a quiet and comfortable sleep environment, can help.
3. Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety disorders may be caused by factors such as trauma, stress, medication and alcohol use, or poor health. The body's stress response system remains activated, causing symptoms such as increased heart rate, muscle tension, difficulty relaxing into deep sleep, and frequent nightmares. Anxiety disorders may also be accompanied by excessive worry, fear, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. Patients may take medications such as Sertraline Hydrochloride Capsules, Olanzapine-Fluoxetine Capsules, or Venlafaxine Hydrochloride Sustained-Release Capsules under a doctor's guidance to alleviate symptoms.
4. Obstructive Sleep Apnea Hypopnea Syndrome
Obesity, age and gender, family history, alcohol and drug use, and smoking are risk factors for obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome. This condition can cause repeated awakenings at night, disrupting normal sleep cycles—especially the REM sleep phase—and leading to nightmares. Symptoms may include snoring, breathing pauses during sleep, daytime sleepiness, and difficulty concentrating. Patients may follow medical advice to use medications such as Estazolam Tablets, Xiangju Capsules, or Tongqiao Biyan Tablets for treatment.
5. Depression
Depression may be triggered by life changes, social and environmental factors, illness, genetics, and personality traits. Depression affects the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain, especially serotonin and norepinephrine, leading to decreased sleep quality and increased dreaming. Symptoms may include low mood, loss of interest, fatigue, and self-blame. Patients may take medications such as Paroxetine Tablets, Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets, or Fluoxetine Capsules under medical supervision for treatment.
Establishing good sleep hygiene practices, such as maintaining a comfortable sleep environment and avoiding caffeine intake at night, can help reduce dreaming.
