Exploding head syndrome

Overview

Some people also see a flash of light.

It's thought to be a hiccup in the brain's shift between sleep and waking.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Hearing a loud bang when falling asleep

Less common

• Flash of light
• Racing heart after

When to get medical care

Causes

Unknown; sleep changes.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Stress
• Sleep loss

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is based on your description.

Questions you may be asked

• Sleep habits, stress

Treatment

Reassurance and better sleep help.

Self-care

• Keep a regular sleep schedule
• Manage stress
• Limit caffeine and alcohol

Prevention

To lower episodes:

• Better sleep
• Regular sleep schedule

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a neurologist (brain and nerve doctor).

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people keep up normal school and work. Rest when you need to.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Adults: More common in women over 50.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Harmless.

It often stops on its own.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• Sleep diary

Questions to ask

• Could my sleep be improved?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Exploding head syndrome