My grandsons, age 28 months and 16 months, have been having night terrors since before their first birthdays. They are loved, well cared for, and healthy. Why would this be happening?
- Imani

Night terrors are somewhat mysterious. It might seem as though night terrors are the same as a bad dream, but they aren't. Dreams occur during REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, a stage of sleep when the eyes move quickly and heart rate and breathing may be erratic. Night terrors happen during the transition between deep sleep and another level of sleep - it's almost as though the person gets "stuck" momentarily between levels.

The good news is that night terrors don't seem to have any harmful effects on the people who have them, and they aren't necessarily a sign that something negative is going on in their lives. Night terrors can happen to loved, healthy, and well cared for children - like your grandchildren!

For more information, check out this article.
How Much Sleep is Enough for My Child?

Reviewed by: Neil Izenberg, MD
Date reviewed: January 2004

Have a question? Email us.

We regret that we can't reply to any email inquiry. Although we can't reply personally, you may see your question posted to this page in the future. If you're looking for medical advice, a diagnosis, or treatment, consult your doctor or other qualified medical professional. If this is an emergency, contact emergency services in your area.