Author: Insomnia Expert Dr. Nisha
Sleepwalking, also known as somnambulism, is a condition in which a person gets up and walks around during the night while they are still asleep. Sleepwalking is a type of parasomnia, which is a disorder that affects the nervous system during sleep. It can occur at any age, but it is most common in children and adolescents.
Causes
The exact cause of sleepwalking is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to the way the brain processes sleep. Factors that can contribute to sleepwalking include:
- Genetics: Sleepwalking tends to run in families, suggesting a genetic link.
- Sleep deprivation: Not getting enough sleep can increase the likelihood of sleepwalking.
- Stress and anxiety: High levels of stress and anxiety can trigger sleepwalking episodes.
- Medications: Certain medications, such as sedatives and antidepressants, can cause sleepwalking.
- Substance abuse: Alcohol and drug use can disrupt normal sleep patterns and increase the risk of sleepwalking.
- Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as sleep apnea and night terrors, can increase the risk of sleepwalking.
Symptoms
Sleepwalking episodes usually occur during the deep sleep stage, which is the first third of the night. Signs of sleepwalking include:
- Sitting up in bed and appearing to be awake
- Walking around the room or house
- Performing complex tasks, such as cooking or cleaning
- Having blank or staring expression
- Being difficult to wake up or confused when awakened
Treatment
In most cases, sleepwalking does not require treatment and will stop on its own as the person grows older. However, if sleepwalking is causing problems or is a safety concern, treatment options include:
- Creating a safe sleeping environment: This includes locking doors and windows and removing any potential hazards from the sleepwalking person’s path.
- Establishing a regular sleep schedule: This includes going to bed and waking up at the same time every day and avoiding caffeine and alcohol close to bedtime.
- Stress management: This includes relaxation techniques, such as yoga and meditation, to reduce stress and anxiety.
- Medications: In some cases, medications, such as sedatives, may be prescribed to help with sleepwalking.
It’s important to note that it’s not safe to try to wake up a person who is sleepwalking, as this can be confusing and disorienting for them, and can cause them to become agitated or violent. Instead, it’s best to guide them back to bed and let them fall back asleep on their own.
In summary, sleepwalking is a common condition that can occur at any age, but it is most common in children and adolescents. It is caused by a combination of genetic, environmental and medical factors. It can be treated by creating a safe sleeping environment, establishing a regular sleep schedule, stress management and medications.
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