What is Nightmare Disorder

Nightmare disorder, also known as dream anxiety disorder, is a condition characterized by recurrent nightmares that cause significant distress or impairment in daily functioning. Here are the key aspects of nightmare disorder:

Symptoms

  • Recurrent Nightmares: Frequent episodes of vivid and distressing dreams that usually involve threats to safety, survival, or other frightening themes.
  • Awakening from Sleep: Individuals typically awaken from these nightmares and often have difficulty returning to sleep.
  • Distress or Anxiety: The content of the nightmares leads to significant anxiety, distress, or fear upon waking.
  • Impairment: The disorder can interfere with daytime functioning, including social, occupational, or academic performance.

Causes

  • Stress and Anxiety: High levels of stress or anxiety can trigger nightmares.
  • Trauma: Experiences of trauma, including PTSD, can lead to recurrent nightmares.
  • Sleep Disorders: Conditions such as insomnia or sleep apnea may be associated with nightmares.
  • Medications: Certain medications, including antidepressants or those that affect neurotransmitters, can contribute to nightmare occurrences.
  • Substance Use: Alcohol and drugs can impact sleep and contribute to nightmares.

Diagnosis

Nightmare disorder is typically diagnosed based on the frequency and impact of nightmares on a person’s life, as well as a review of their medical and psychological history.

Treatment

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This therapy can help change the patterns of thinking and behavior associated with nightmares.
  • Imagery Rehearsal Therapy (IRT): A technique where individuals rewrite their nightmares in a positive light and rehearse the new version.
  • Stress Management: Techniques such as relaxation exercises, mindfulness, or therapy can help reduce stress and anxiety.
  • Medication: In some cases, medications may be prescribed to help manage symptoms, particularly if nightmares are associated with PTSD or another mental health condition.

If nightmares are frequent and disruptive, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation and potential treatment options.

A few Sleep Disorders we Treat

Sleep Apnea

Apnea Sleep Disorder Diagnosis and Treatment

Insomnia

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Narcolepsy

Sleep Disorder Treatment

Excessive Sleep Syndrome

Daytime Sleep Disorder

Circadian rhythm disorders

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Periodic leg movement disorder

Sleep Disorders Arlington, VA

Snoring

Snoring

Other Sleep Disorders

medical services sleep tests

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