Nightmares
Alternate Names : Bad Dreams, Dreams - Bad
DefinitionA nightmare is a dream occurring during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep that brings out feelings of strong, inescapable fear, terror, distress, or extreme anxiety. They typically occur in the latter part of the night and usually awaken the sleeper, who is able to recall the content of the dream. See also night terror; sleep disorders.
Overview & Considerations
Nightmares tend to be more common among children and decrease in frequency toward adulthood. About 50% of adults experience occasional nightmares, women more often than men.
Eating just prior to going to bed, which raises the body's metabolism and brain activity, may cause nightmares to occur more often. Adults who experience repeated nightmares that become a significant problem should seek help.
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