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Nocturnal seizures, also known as sleep-related seizures, are when you have seizures at night while sleeping. People with certain kinds of epilepsy may have most of their seizures while asleep or shortly after waking up. It has been estimated that about 12% of people with epilepsy are affected by sleep-related epilepsy.
If you believe that you (or someone you care for) are having seizures while sleeping, speak with your doctor.
This article provides a general overview of nocturnal seizures, but does not constitute medical advice.
Signs you had a seizure in your sleep
It can be hard to tell if someone has had seizures during sleep. But your doctor may be able to diagnose this issue based on seizures while sleeping symptoms. These may include:
- Certain brainwave patterns on an EEG
- Waking up for no clear reason, several times a night
- Shouting or screaming during sleep
- Violent movements of your arms or legs, and thrashing around
- Being confused after waking
How are nocturnal seizures diagnosed?
If you think that you or someone you care for may be having nocturnal seizures, speak to your doctor. A sleep study with video monitoring may be used to help diagnose the issue.
Treatments for seizures during sleep
There are several kinds of anti-seizure medications (ASMs) that may be used to treat nocturnal seizures. Your doctor will advise on the most suitable treatment depending on the underlying cause of the seizures. Other treatments, such as surgery, may also be used.
Living with seizures while sleeping
If you have been diagnosed with nocturnal seizures, ask your physician for more advice about how to manage this. They may provide suggestions on how to make your sleeping arrangements and bedroom as safe as possible.
