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Parasomnias

By Mark Stibich, Ph.D., About.com

Updated: April 20, 2007

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

Definition: Parasomnia is a general term for abnormal waking during sleep. Parasomnias include: sleep walking, sleep talking, feeling "glued to the bed" (sleep paralysis), acting out dreams (REM sleep behavior disorder) and night terrors (nightmares).

These disorders occur when body functions that are normally turned off emerge during sleep. Some of these parasomnias are common in children and are usually outgrown. Certain medications and neurological conditions can also lead to parasomnias.

If you are experience strange or abnormal awakenings, talk to your doctor.

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