About Us | Privacy | Site Map
May 21, 2013
Font Size
A
A
A
...
5
...

Nightmares (cont.)

Medical Author:
Medical Editor:

Nightmares Treatment

  • No specific medical treatment is indicated for nightmares.
  • If a nightmare occurs, reassurance and comfort are appropriate.
  • If nightmares occur frequently, an evaluation of daytime routines is needed. This includes assessing exposure to daytime stressors, television, or video games and bedtime practices.
  • Research suggests that dreams can be impacted by conscious thought before bed; remembering fun events or funny stories can sometimes help derail a nightmare before it begins.

  • Lucid dreaming, or being aware during a dream, can help redirect a nightmare into a pleasant dream.

Nightmare prevention

Practicing good sleep hygiene is important for everyone who has experienced nightmares. This includes:

  • establishing a bedtime routine that starts at the same time every evening and
  • making bedtime a safe and comfortable time.

For children:

  • using a nightlight can decrease fear or anxiety;
  • discussing “monsters” -- either under the bed or in the closet -- and showing the child that nothing harmful is present can be reassuring; and
  • imagining alternate endings to nightmares can provide a child with a sense of empowerment prior to going to sleep.

For adults, improvement in sleep/wake cycles can be seen with:

  • eliminating television or computer exposure an hour or more before bedtime;
  • maintaining consistent sleep and wake times;
  • eliminating working in bed;
  • cutting back on caffeine after 1PM (for those who work daytime hours); and
  • practicing lucid dreaming.

If nightmares occur frequently (more than two nights per week over many months), then psychological evaluation is suggested. Different types of psychotherapy, including cognitive-behavioral therapy and hypnosis, can be of benefit in decreasing the frequency of nightmares.

Must Read Articles Related to Nightmares

Anxiety
Anxiety Anxiety is a feeling of apprehension, fear, or worry. Some fears and worries are justified, such as worry about a loved one. Anxiety may occur without a cause, ...learn more >>
Club Drugs
Club Drugs A wave of new drugs has become increasingly popular with today's adolescents and young adults. These drugs are commonly known as club drugs. Common club drugs i...learn more >>
Depression
Depression Depression is a mental illness that affects 19 million Americans annually. Causes are genetic, environmental, and biological. Symptoms and signs include weight ...learn more >>

Viewer Comments & Reviews

Nightmares - Causes

The eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:

What do you think causes your nightmares?

Women's Health

Find out what women really need.

Please acknowledge your agreement




Read What Your Physician is Reading on Medscape

Sleep Disorder: Nightmares »

Sleep disorders occur in 35-45% of children aged 2-18 years.

Read More on Medscape Reference »


Medical Dictionary


Use Pill Finder Find it Now

Pill Identifier on RxList

  • quick, easy,
    pill identification

Find a Local Pharmacy

  • including 24 hour, pharmacies