How to Control Exploding Head Syndrome

Exploding head syndrome is a parasomnia in which the sufferer seems to hear a loud noise that originates inside the skull. Although it isn't painful, it is nonetheless disturbing to experience, especially when it happens during sleep, when it is known as auditory sleep start.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Small notebook
• Pen

1. Bear in mind that while exploding head syndrome is frightening, it is not damaging your brain, your hearing or anything else. You will not die from exploding head syndrome, although you may have a racing heart and feel anxious.
2. Take steps to control your stress level. Like other parasomnias, exploding head syndrome appears or worsens when under stress. Ask your doctor for advice on how to deal with stress. She may recommend measures ranging from relaxation exercises to psychotherapy.
3. Avoid becoming too fatigued. Parasomnias can also be triggered by physical exhaustion. If you don't get enough sleep or you fall into bed weary from a long, hard day of work, you will be more likely to experience exploding head syndrome.
4. Keep a sleep journal. Record what time you go to bed at night and when you get up, along with anything unusual that happens during the night such as insomnia, nightmares, or sleep starts (jerking awake).
5. See your doctor, who may test you for temporal lobe seizures, although this is an unlikely cause. He may also prescribe clomipramine, which has been used with some success for this condition. Show your doctor your sleep journal.
6. Be patient. Almost all cases of exploding head syndrome resolve themselves over time.

Tips & Warnings

• A parasomnia is an undesired event that accompanies sleep. Other parasomnias are sleepwalking, sleep paralysis and periodic limb movement.
• Exploding head syndrome can range from a roaring sound to a gunshot. It can also be accompanied by a flash of light behind the eyes and the jerking of muscles.
• Exploding head syndrome should not be confused with "brain zaps," which can occur during withdrawal from certain antidepressant medications.