What is Sleepwalking?
Sleepwalking is a disorder that can cause people to get up and move about in their sleep. It is characterized by excessive, regular, zombie-like walking during deep sleep, severe disorientation and a lack of recollection following the incident. Sleepwalking can be described as automatic, involuntary, and ritualistic. People who experience sleepwalking often perform activities that are similar to habitually learned behaviors, such as checking doors and windows, and in some cases, going for a walk outside.
Sleepwalking is considered a parasomnia, which is an abnormal behavior of sleep. People who suffer from parasomnia are unable to control or recall these events. They may wake up confused or frightened, and they may have no recollection of the event. Sleepwalking incidents may last anywhere from a few minutes to up to an hour or more.
Sleepwalking is more common in children than adults. While it can affect anyone at any time, it is more likely to occur when someone is sleep-deprived or under a lot of stress. It can also happen when someone has been drinking alcohol or is taking certain medications.
Causes of Sleepwalking
The exact cause of sleepwalking is not known, although it is believed to have a genetic component. Research has suggested that it may be associated with the improper balance of neurotransmitters in the brain. Other factors such as stress, alcohol, fatigue, and medications may also contribute to the development of sleepwalking.
Sleepwalking may also be a sign of another disorder, such as narcolepsy, restless legs syndrome, sleep apnea, and night terrors. These conditions can disrupt a person’s sleep-wake cycle, causing them to experience episodes of sleepwalking.
Treatments for Sleepwalking
The treatment of sleepwalking generally depends on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. If sleepwalking is the result of an underlying disorder, such as narcolepsy, then treatment of the disorder may be necessary. In most cases, however, sleepwalking is treated with lifestyle changes and relaxation techniques.
Lifestyle changes may include avoiding stimulants such as caffeine, getting sufficient sleep, and avoiding excessive stress. Relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises can be helpful in reducing the frequency and severity of sleepwalking incidents. Moreover, a doctor may also suggest medication in certain cases.
In severe cases, cognitive behavioral therapy may be recommended. This form of therapy is used to help people recognize the triggers of sleepwalking and develop strategies for coping with them so that sleepwalking episodes can be reduced and even eliminated.
Safety Precautions for Sleepwalkers
If you or someone you know is a sleepwalker, it is important to take safety precautions to protect their well-being. These precautions include:
- Make sure the bedroom is free of potential hazards such as furniture and sharp objects that may be tripped on in the dark.
- Close all windows and lock all doors.
- Place a security bar on the bedroom door to prevent the sleepwalker from escaping the house.
- Do not wake the sleepwalker as they may become startled and disoriented.
- Speak in a calming and reassuring voice.
- Lead the sleepwalker back to the bed.
Conclusion
Sleepwalking is a disorder that can cause people to get up and move about in their sleep. It is a parasomnia and is more common in children than adults. The cause of sleepwalking is unknown but is believed to be related to an imbalance of neurotransmitters in the brain. Treatments for sleepwalking depend on the severity and may include lifestyle changes, relaxation techniques, medication, and cognitive behavioral therapy. Safety precautions should also be taken to prevent injuries.