Many sleep disorders cause problems with falling asleep or staying asleep, but sleepwalking (also known as somnambulism) causes a person to perform activities in their sleep. Sleepwalking is not usually serious, but it can increase one’s risk of injuries if left unaddressed. Here is what you should know about this fascinating sleep disorder in case you or a loved one experiences it.
For most people, the cause of somnambulism remains unknown. However, you generally have a higher risk if your parents also engage in sleepwalking. Additionally, there are a few other risk factors linked to the disorder:
People with degenerative brain diseases, such as Parkinson’s, may also be prone to sleepwalking. And while it is a rare occurrence, hyperthyroidism can sometimes increase one’s chance of somnambulism.
As for symptoms, sleepwalking covers a range of activities and actions, from walking to eating in your sleep. It can also involve other characteristics and factors, including poor coordination, reduced memory of the event, acting out dreams, and being partially awake.
In the event that sleepwalking is disrupting your life, there are lots of ways to treat the condition. Therapy can help address mental health issues like anxiety, which may be contributing to the disorder. If stress levels are high during the day and known to trigger episodes, your doctor may recommend deep breathing and other relaxation techniques. Some people also benefit from scheduled wakeups, which entail anticipating when an episode will start (most people begin sleepwalking within two to three hours of drifting off) and waking the person before it does.
Medication may be recommended for severe cases of somnambulism. Antidepressants and gabapentin, which is a medication often used to treat seizures, can manage neurotransmitters to help control sleepwalking episodes. Sedatives are also helpful when taken at night.
The good news is that sleepwalking is rarely linked to serious health problems and more people are able to effectively manage the disorder. However, somnambulism carries a real risk of injury when it comes to falls and other accidents. The following steps can keep you or a loved one safe when sleepwalking is an issue:
In the event you encounter a loved one who is sleepwalking, the best course of action is to direct them back to their bedroom. While it is not dangerous to wake a sleepwalker, the resulting confusion and disorientation may prevent them from comprehending what is happening.