Exploding Head Syndrome, What Is It?
The exploding head syndrome is a disorder that falls into the category of parasomnia. It consists of a sudden awakening in which the person experiences an intense headache accompanied by a violent sound, as if it were an electrical discharge.
Those who have never suffered from it may see it as a strange and unusual thing. However, it must be said that it is a frequent phenomenon and is accompanied by a feeling of panic that is difficult to forget.
It is not pleasant at all. However, it should be noted that it is not a serious condition or associated with neurological disorders. In fact, exploding head syndrome has more to do with anxiety and stress.
In this article we want to deepen this reality that interferes with the rest of thousands of people.
Exploding head syndrome: what is it?
Some say it is like a bomb that explodes; for others, it is like a sharp blow or an electric shock like lightning. This is precisely the sound that suddenly echoes in the head of a person who has just entered the first cycle of sleep.
Let’s imagine what such a thing can mean: we are sleeping and suddenly we hear a very loud noise that wakes us up violently.
As if that weren’t enough, this sound is accompanied by an intense headache caused by the sensation of being surrounded by lights.
First, the subject thinks it is a dream or that they have lost their sense of reality. Still, it’s not about either thing.
A strange but well known sleep disorder
The first description of this disorder dates back to 1876 by Dr. Silas Weir who recorded the cases of 50 patients. It follows that:
- It is more common in women.
- There are those who experience it only once in their life. Other patients, on the other hand, suffer from it on a daily basis.
- Few people talk about this problem because the abrupt sound they hear during sleep does not come from outside, but is an auditory hallucination. In fact, they fear they have a mental illness.
What is the cause of exploding head syndrome?
Remember that it is a sleep disorder, not of a neurological or psychological nature.
To date, several theories have been expressed as to what could be the origin of this syndrome. Let’s see what they are.
Stress and anxiety
This is the theory that has garnered the most support so far.
- Our brain disconnects the “conscious part” of the mind to induce us into a state of unconsciousness which favors deep sleep. This is why an electrical discharge suddenly starts from neuronal activity.
- When we experience periods of intense stress, the brain is hyperactivated. The excitement is high, so when it comes time to rest, it fails to reduce all this “energy” due to too many neuronal connections.
- During sleep, neuronal activity reacts with a sudden whiplash-like discharge, stimulating the auditory and visual area. We hear a loud noise and see lights.
Sleep paralysis
Another valid idea concerns the link with sleep paralysis, another type of parasomnia. Some scientists support the idea that both disorders are related to each other.
In both, in fact, a sensation of panic and alarm is experienced and, in addition, visual and auditory hallucinations appear.
A hearing problem
The last theory linked to this condition is that of a possible hearing problem, to be exact in the Eustachian tube.
The possibility that a mild alteration, injury or inflammation affects with these auditory hallucinations and headaches has been evaluated .
This theory, however, does not justify the intense lights seen by the patient.
Treatments for exploding head syndrome
Any problems related to rest affect the quality of life. For this reason, one should not hesitate to consult a doctor for any irregularity, discomfort or unusual situation.
As we have said, many people do not talk about the symptoms associated with the exploding head syndrome out of fear or shame. “How can I tell my doctor that I wake up at night hearing a loud noise that doesn’t really exist and that, in addition, I have seen lights around me?”.
Don’t be afraid. This disorder affects many people and can be treated. Some medications, such as clomipramine (an antidepressant), are very effective.
Similarly, stress management techniques are very useful and promote muscle and mental relaxation.
Don’t hesitate to speak to the specialists.
