What is exploding head syndrome?

# Stuff You Should Know: Exploding Head Syndrome

Josh and Chuck dive into the oddly named but very real phenomenon of exploding head syndrome, a sleep disorder where people hear incredibly loud phantom sounds like gunshots or crashing symbols just as they're falling asleep. The hosts explore the surprising history of the condition dating back to the 1870s, share findings from Chuck's Facebook survey showing it affects far more people than previously thought, and break down the fascinating neuroscience behind why your brain essentially misfires during the transition to sleep. If you've ever jolted awake to a mysterious boom that no one else heard, this episode will explain exactly what's happening in your head and why it's nothing to worry about.