What causes nightmares?
Dec 31, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Zhiqin
Introduction
In general, nightmares may be caused by abnormalities in the rapid eye movement (REM) sleep stage, excessive stress and anxiety, anxiety disorders, depression, or obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention and undergo symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. Additionally, it is important to maintain a regular sleep schedule, create a comfortable sleeping environment, and learn to manage emotional stress.
Generally, nightmares may be caused by abnormalities in the rapid eye movement (REM) sleep phase, excessive stress, anxiety disorders, depression, obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome, and other factors. It is recommended to seek timely medical consultation and undergo symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Abnormalities in the REM Sleep Phase
Nightmares often occur during the REM sleep phase. When the REM sleep cycle is prolonged or its latency shortened, the incidence of nightmares increases. Establishing regular sleep habits and avoiding strenuous exercise or caffeine intake before bedtime is advised.
2. Excessive Stress
Long-term psychological stress can cause excessive activity in the cerebral cortex, potentially manifesting as negative emotional experiences in dreams and inducing nightmares. Practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, and meditation can help alleviate psychological stress.
3. Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety disorder is an emotional condition characterized by excessive worry, tension, and fear, which may manifest as nightmares during sleep. It may also be accompanied by symptoms such as palpitations, sweating, tremors, and rapid breathing. Medications such as buspirone hydrochloride tablets, sertraline hydrochloride tablets, and oxazepam tablets may be used under medical guidance for treatment.
4. Depression
Depression is generally associated with long-term high-pressure environments and other factors. Patients often experience impaired emotional regulation in the brain, leading to recurring traumatic or negative emotions in dreams, manifesting as nightmares. It may also be accompanied by symptoms such as low mood and anxiety. It is recommended to use medications such as paroxetine tablets, fluvoxamine maleate tablets, and fluoxetine hydrochloride capsules under a doctor's supervision for treatment.
5. Obstructive Sleep Apnea Hypopnea Syndrome
Obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome is associated with factors such as obesity and long-term alcohol consumption. It can disrupt normal sleep patterns, increasing the risk of nightmares, and may also be accompanied by daytime sleepiness and fatigue. Patients are advised to use medications such as zanamivir inhalation powder, lidocaine hydrochloride injection, and atenolol tablets under medical guidance to alleviate symptoms.
In daily life, it is important to maintain regular作息 habits, create a comfortable sleep environment, learn to manage emotional stress, and avoid excessive fatigue.
