What is parasomnia
Parasomnia is a sleep disorder marked by unusual behaviors during sleep.
Parasomnia is an umbrella term for sleep disorders that make you do things while you're asleep — like walking, talking, eating, or acting out dreams. These episodes usually happen during transitions between sleep stages or when your sleep is disrupted. For many people, parasomnia is triggered by other sleep disorders like sleep apnea or insomnia, stress, certain medications, or genetics. Treating the underlying cause often reduces episodes.
Common types of parasomnia
Different behaviors, but all happen during sleep.
Sleepwalking (somnambulism)
Getting out of bed and moving around while fully asleep, usually during deep sleep with no memory afterward.
Sleep talking (somniloquy)
Speaking or making sounds during sleep, ranging from mumbles to full conversations, typically without remembering.
REM sleep behavior disorder
Physically acting out dreams — punching, kicking, or jumping out of bed. Can pose injury risk to yourself or your partner.
Night terrors
Sudden waking with intense fear, confusion, or screaming. Unlike nightmares, you usually don't remember the episode.
Why parasomnia treatment matters
Beyond the behaviors themselves, parasomnia affects safety and sleep quality.
Risk of injury to yourself or others during episodes
Fragmented, poor-quality sleep
Daytime exhaustion, brain fog, and difficulty focusing
Anxiety and stress around bedtime
Sleep disruption for partners or family members
Parasomnia starts with why
Understanding what causes your parasomnia is key to relief.
There’s no one-size-fits-all parasomnia cure, but most cases improve when you treat the root cause. For example, conditions like obstructive sleep apnea or insomnia can make your sleep unstable, leading to parasomnia episodes. By managing these first, many people see fewer episodes or stop having them altogether. Our sleep specialists will help you uncover what’s behind your symptoms — and guide you toward the best next step.
Our approach
How we treat parasomnia
Treatment starts with finding the root cause of parasomnia.
1. Meet your sleep practitioner
A virtual visit to review your symptoms, sleep history, and any potential triggers like stress, medications, or other sleep disorders.
2. Check for underlying sleep disorders
If needed, we'll send you a home sleep test to check for conditions like sleep apnea or insomnia that can trigger parasomnia episodes.
3. Build your treatment plan
Based on what we find, your plan may include treating sleep apnea with CPAP therapy, or insomnia with CBT-i.
Specialists who understand
complex sleep disorders
Our team has experience diagnosing and managing parasomnia
and related conditions.
Dr. William Lu
Doctor of Medicine (MD)
Dr. Jamila Battle
Doctor of Medicine (MD)
Dr. Joshua Roland
Doctor of Medicine (MD)
Dawn Fitzgerald
Nurse Practitioner (DNP, FNP-BC)
Kelly Cranker
Nurse Practitioner (MS, ANP-BC)
Alexandra Rogerson
Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C)
Erin Comerford
Nurse Practitioner (MSN, MPH)
Teresa Gieszl
Nurse Practitioner (NP)
Have any questions?
What type of providers will I see at Dreem Health?
You’ll be cared for by a team of licensed healthcare providers, including sleep doctors, nurse practitioners, and care coordinators. All are trained in sleep medicine and focused on helping you get the rest you need.
How much will my appointment cost?
If you’re using insurance, your costs depend on your plan, copay, and deductible — but we’ll verify everything in advance and let you know what to expect. If you’re paying out of pocket, our prices are simple and upfront. You can view our current rates , or email us anytime at hello@dreemhealth.com — we’re happy to walk you through it.
Are the sleep tests covered by insurance?
In most cases, yes. Coverage depends on your specific plan and whether a home sleep test or lab test is recommended. We’ll confirm all details with your insurer before moving forward.
How do I receive my home sleep test?
Once your provider orders the test and insurance is approved, we’ll ship the device directly to your home. You’ll get a tracking number so you know when it’s on the way.
Do you prescribe medication?
Yes. Our providers may prescribe non-controlled medications when clinically appropriate. All prescribing decisions are made by your licensed provider based on your individual medical evaluation and treatment plan. Your well-being is our top priority. Please note that we do not prescribe controlled substances like Adderall, Ambien, or Xyrem.
Still have questions?
We’re here to help. Reach out to our care team to get the answers you need.
Get in touch