What is Confusional arousals

Confusional arousals are a type of parasomnia, which is a disorder characterized by abnormal behaviors, movements, or experiences occurring during sleep. Here’s an overview of confusional arousals:

Symptoms

  • Partial Awakening: Individuals may appear to awaken but are often disoriented and confused. They may not fully recognize their surroundings.
  • Inappropriate Behavior: During these episodes, a person might engage in activities that seem purposeful but are often incoherent or nonsensical (e.g., walking around, talking, or performing routine tasks).
  • Difficulty in Being Awoken: They may resist attempts to wake them and can appear dazed or unaware of their actions.
  • Amnesia for the Episode: Typically, individuals do not remember the episode once fully awake.

Causes

The exact causes of confusional arousals are not fully understood, but several factors can contribute:

  • Sleep Deprivation: Lack of sleep can increase the likelihood of experiencing confusional arousals.
  • Stress: High levels of stress or anxiety may also play a role.
  • Sleep Disorders: Conditions such as sleep apnea or other parasomnias can be associated with confusional arousals.
  • Alcohol or Substance Use: Use of certain substances can impact sleep architecture and contribute to these episodes.

Diagnosis

Confusional arousals are diagnosed based on:

  • Sleep History: A detailed account of sleep patterns, behaviors during sleep, and any witness accounts from family members.
  • Sleep Studies: In some cases, a polysomnography (sleep study) may be conducted to rule out other sleep disorders.

Treatment

While confusional arousals often resolve on their own, the following approaches can help manage the condition:

  • Improving Sleep Hygiene: Establishing a regular sleep schedule and creating a comfortable sleep environment can be beneficial.
  • Addressing Underlying Conditions: Treating any underlying sleep disorders or stressors may help reduce occurrences.
  • Safety Precautions: Ensuring a safe sleeping environment can prevent injuries during episodes.

If confusional arousals are frequent or causing distress, consulting a sleep specialist is recommended for proper evaluation and management.

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Office Locations

Conveniently located near you in Loudoun and Fairfax VA

NOVA Pulmonary – Dulles
24430 Stone Springs Boulevard
Suite 550
Dulles, VA 20166

NOVA Pulmonary – Lansdowne
19415 Deerfield Avenue
Suite 301
Landsdowne, VA 20176

NOVA Pulmonary – Vienna
124 Park Street SE
Suite 203
Vienna, VA 22180

Meet the team at NOVA Pulmonary Critical Care and Sleep Associates

Dr. Aditya Dubey

Dr. Aditya N Dubey, M.D, F.C.C.P. – Founder

Specialty:
Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine
Board Certified by American Board of Internal Medicine in the Subspecialities of Pulmonary Medicine, Critical Care Medicine and Sleep Medicine.  Learn more about Dr. Dubey

Dr. Petra Thomas

Dr. Petra Thomas, M.D.

Specialty:
Pulmonary Medicine
Board Certified by American Board of Internal Medicine in the Subspecialities of Pulmonary Medicine. Learn more about Dr. Thomas

Dr. Arman Murabia

Dr. Arman Murabia, M.D.

Specialty:
Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine
Board Certified by American Board of Internal Medicine in the Subspecialities of Pulmonary Medicine, Critical Care Medicine and Sleep Medicine. Learn more about Dr. Murabia

Paulos Abebe PA-C

Paulos Abebe PA-C

Physician Assistant Learn more about Paulos Abebe PA-C

Rebekah B. Lee, AGNP-C

Rebekah Lee, AGNP-C

Nurse Practitioner.  Learn more about Rebekah Lee

Christine Amorosi, AGNP-C

Christine Amorosi, AGNP-C

Nurse Practitioner.  Learn more about Christine Amorosie