Exploding head syndrome
Exploding head syndrome
Why some people perceive a sudden loud noise during sleep transitions and when evaluation is needed.
Overview
Exploding head syndrome is a benign parasomnia in which a person perceives a sudden loud bang, crash or electrical sensation while falling asleep or waking. The event is frightening but usually painless and is not an actual external sound.
Key points
Sleep transition
Episodes occur near sleep onset or awakening.
Awareness
The person becomes alert quickly and can describe the event.
Benign pattern
Classic episodes do not cause brain damage or stroke.
Look-alikes
Headache, seizure, ear disease, panic and medication effects may require consideration.
Clinical guidance
Reassurance, regular sleep and reducing sleep deprivation or stress may help. New neurologic deficits, loss of consciousness, severe headache, injury or events not confined to sleep transitions require prompt medical assessment.
How W8MD can help
W8MD Weight Loss, Sleep & MedSpa serves greater New York City and New Jersey through its Brooklyn office and the greater Philadelphia region through its Northeast Philadelphia office. W8MD can evaluate parasomnia symptoms, review sleep deprivation and medications and determine whether neurologic or auditory referral is appropriate.
More information: Read Exploding head syndrome at WikiMD. Regional patients may also visit NYC Medical Weight Loss or Philadelphia Medical Weight Loss.
W8MD patient experiences
Patients choose W8MD for local, physician-supervised care and ongoing access to a clinical team. Review current, consented W8MD success stories and testimonials. Testimonials describe individual experiences; results vary with health, treatment, adherence and follow-up and are not guarantees.
Frequently asked questions
Is it dangerous?
Classic exploding head syndrome is considered benign.
Is it a hallucination?
It is a sensory parasomnia during a sleep-wake transition.
Does it require a sleep study?
Not always; unusual features or other sleep symptoms may justify testing.
Evidence and authoritative sources
Contact W8MD
W8MD Weight Loss, Sleep & MedSpa provides physician-supervised care in Brooklyn, New York and Northeast Philadelphia. Telehealth may be available for eligible patients based on location and applicable requirements.
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