Intermediate
Technical
IVT
sleep-related groaning
Parasomnia characterized by repetitive groaning sounds during expiration in sleep, also known as catathrenia.
Full Definition
Sleep-related groaning, clinically termed catathrenia, is a parasomnia involving repetitive vocalization characterized by groaning, moaning, or humming sounds that occur during expiration in sleep. Episodes typically occur during REM sleep and can be disruptive to bed partners despite causing minimal distress to the affected individual. The condition is distinguished from sleep talking by its monotonous, non-verbal nature and respiratory timing.
Usage
Usage note: Catathrenia is the preferred clinical term.
In Context
- "The bed partner reported nightly episodes of sleep-related groaning during REM periods." — clinical history
- "Polysomnography confirmed catathrenia with characteristic expiratory groaning sounds." — diagnostic report
Also known as
catathrenia
sleep groaning
Don't confuse with
sleep talking
snoring
nocturnal vocalization