Exactly what is sleepwalking?
Sleepwalkers usually move around when they are in deep sleep. They may get out of bed and even leave the house. Sleepwalking usually lasts for a few minutes at a time and can occur up to three or four nights per week. Others sleepwalk for longer periods and less frequently. Most people are unable to remember much about what they did afterwards. Typically, sleepwalking begins in childhood, becomes less common as a teenager, and then stops as a young adult. However, some individuals continue to sleepwalk throughout their lives. The longer a child sleepwalks into their teenage years, the greater the likelihood it will continue into early adulthood.
Why do people sleepwalk?
Sleepwalking is an inherited condition for some people. For children, it may also be a stage of development. The risk of sleepwalking increases if you don’t get enough sleep, have irregular sleep hours, are stressed, or use drugs and some medicines. Additionally, sleep apnoea, seizures, and fever are contributing factors to sleepwalking. Sleepwalking can be triggered by sounds that disturb your sleep. The cause is not always known, however.
Is sleepwalking common?
Approximately 2 or 3 children in 100 sleepwalk often, and approximately 5 in 100 sleepwalk occasionally, according to surveys. In adults, 3 or 4 out of 100 have sleepwalked at least once, but only 4 out of 1000 are still sleepwalking. Fewer than a quarter of people who sleepwalked as children continue to do so as adults. After childhood, sleepwalking may stop for some, but it may return if they are unwell or stressed.
What effects does it have on people?
Sleepwalkers may be confused if they wake up suddenly. They may not be able to go back to sleep right away. Sleepwalkers will not be able to sleep well and will be tired during the day. Sleepwalking can also cause anxiety and depression. They may bump into objects or leave the house and be injured. Given the number of people who sleepwalk, the number of injuries is actually lower than you might expect.
Can medication help make me worry less What is the treatment for sleepwalking?
Sleepwalking may just be a normal part of growing up. After a child sleepwalks, their parents should be able to comfort him/her and direct him/her back to bed. Most children grow out of it with time. Taking action should only be taken if it occurs too often and has a significant impact on the child. Examples include: if they feel tired during the day or are at risk of injuring themselves. Good sleep habits are crucial for adults who sleepwalk as this may reduce the frequency of sleepwalking. Sometimes sleeping tablets are used, but this should be discussed with a doctor.
How might a doctor help?
A doctor can advise how to improve sleep habits, get a better night’s sleep, and make sleepwalking less dangerous. Sometimes a referral to a psychologist or sleep specialist is necessary. There are treatments for sleepwalking. An adult may also be prescribed sedatives for short periods of time and these can stop sleepwalking.
Are there any things you can do to help alleviate symptoms?
Reduce your stress level by practising relaxation techniques. Avoid caffeine and other stimulants prior to bedtime. Be careful when you sleepwalk. Lock your windows to prevent you from escaping. If possible, you may want to install bells on doors to wake up the rest of the family. You can also use baby monitors if you move around at night so others can hear you.
When and where should you seek help?
If sleepwalking is affecting how you function during the day, you should talk to your local doctor.
