parasomnia
Pronunciation: pair-ah-SOM-nee-ah
Category of sleep disorders involving abnormal behaviors, emotions, perceptions, or movements occurring during sleep or sleep-wake transitions.
Full Definition
Parasomnias are a diverse group of sleep disorders characterized by undesirable physical events or experiences that occur during sleep, during specific sleep stages, or during sleep-wake transitions. These disorders are classified into three main categories: NREM-related parasomnias (such as sleepwalking and sleep terrors), REM-related parasomnias (including REM sleep behavior disorder and nightmares), and other parasomnias (such as sleep enuresis and exploding head syndrome). Parasomnias often involve complex motor behaviors, autonomic nervous system activation, or dream-like experiences while the patient remains asleep or in altered states of consciousness.
Usage
Usage note: Plural form is 'parasomnias'. Avoid using as a general term for all sleep disorders.
In Context
- "The patient's history of sleepwalking and sleep talking suggested a NREM-related parasomnia." — Sleep disorder evaluation
- "Video polysomnography is recommended for evaluation of complex parasomnias." — Sleep study referral