Sometimes during sleep it seems as if we have entered a scary world – someone is chasing us, we are falling somewhere or we are facing some untoward incident. we have such dreams Nightmares They say. The question is, why do these scary dreams occur? Are these just imaginations or a sign of some mental disorder?
According to scientists, nightmares are related to the state of the brain when we are between deep sleep and dream sleep.
The real reason for nightmares
Our brain goes through several stages during sleep. When we dream, the emotion controlling part of the brain becomes more active and the logical part becomes a little weak. For this reason, fear, anxiety and stress appear as scary scenes in dreams.
Main reasons for having nightmares
1. Too much stress and anxiety
The stress and fear of the day gets accumulated in the mind and comes out in the form of dreams at night.
2. Lack of sleep
Less sleep or frequent sleep disturbances unbalance the mind, which leads to nightmares.
3. Watching scary movies or content
Watching horror movies, crime shows or scary stories before sleeping affects the brain.
4. Fever or illness
In high fever, brain activity changes, which leads to strange and scary dreams.
5. Side effects of some medicines
Depression, blood pressure, or sleeping medications can make dreams more vivid and scary.
6. Trauma or bad experience
It is common to have the same dream again and again after an accident or scary incident.
symptoms of nightmares
- waking up frightened
- sweating and heart beat
- Remembering the dream so clearly that fear remains
- having trouble sleeping again
- feeling tired due to lack of sleep
Are nightmares a sign of any disease?
It is normal to have nightmares occasionally. but if
- have scary dreams every day
- lack of sleep
- Fear or anxiety persists during the day
So this could be a sign of mental stress, anxiety or sleep related problems.
Easy ways to avoid bad dreams
1. Switch off mobile and TV before sleeping
Avoid watching scary or negative content.
2. Reduce stress
Do meditation, pranayam or light exercise.
3. Sleep and wake up at regular times
Sleeping at the same time every day keeps the mind balanced.
4. Eat light and quick meals
Heavy meals affect sleep.
5. Adopt positive thinking
Think positive things or listen to light music before sleeping.
6. Stay away from caffeine and alcohol
These spoil the quality of sleep.
When should one see a doctor?
If
- having nightmares every day
- Can’t get enough sleep
- Everyday life is being affected due to fear
So it is important to consult a doctor or sleep specialist.
Nightmares are the result of a disturbance in the brain when fear and stress take over during sleep. These can be avoided by adopting right lifestyle, less stress and good sleeping habits. If the problem persists, it is not right to ignore it.
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