Sleepwalking

Sleepwalking occurs during deep, dreamless sleep (NREM), usually early in the night.

What is Sleepwalking?
Also known as Somnambulism, it involves getting up and walking around while asleep.

Who gets it? It is most common in children aged 4 to 8. Most outgrow it by their teens. If it starts in adulthood, it is more likely linked to stress, medications, or other sleep disorders.

Symptoms & Signs

Sleepwalking is a "parasomnia of arousal." The person is stuck between sleep and wakefulness. Signs include:

• The Stare: Eyes are open but have a glassy, glazed look.
• No Response: They usually do not respond when spoken to.
• Clumsiness: Movements may be uncoordinated.
• Routine Actions: Getting dressed, eating, or even urinating in odd places (like a closet).
• Amnesia: They rarely remember the episode in the morning.

🛑 MYTH BUSTER: Waking a Sleepwalker
Myth: "You should never wake a sleepwalker because they will have a heart attack/go crazy."

Fact: It is not physically dangerous to wake them, but it can leave them confused, disoriented, or agitated.
Best Approach: Gently guide them back to bed without waking them. Use a calm, low voice.

Causes & Triggers

In children, it is often just a sign of a developing brain. However, triggers include:

• Sleep Deprivation: Overtiredness is the #1 trigger.
• Stress & Anxiety.
• Fever: Illness can disrupt sleep cycles.
• Medications: Sedatives, antihistamines, and specifically Zolpidem (Ambien).
• Underlying Conditions: Sleep Apnea, Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS), or Migraines.

Home Safety Checklist

Since you cannot stop the walking, you must make the path safe.

• Lock Doors: Secure windows and exterior doors (consider high locks children can't reach).
• Block Stairs: Use safety gates at the top of staircases.
• Clear the Floor: Remove tripping hazards like cords or toys.
• No Bunk Beds: Sleepwalkers should always sleep on the bottom bunk or a low bed.
• Hide Car Keys: For adult sleepwalkers, ensure keys are inaccessible.

Treatment & "Scheduled Awakening"

Medical treatment is rarely needed for children unless there is a risk of injury. However, you can try:

1. Scheduled Awakening

If the sleepwalking happens at a consistent time (e.g., 2 hours after bedtime):

• Wake the child up 15 minutes before the usual episode time.
• Keep them awake for 5 minutes (talk to them, have them drink water).
• Let them go back to sleep. This "resets" the sleep cycle.

2. Sleep Hygiene

Establish a calming bedtime routine and ensure they get enough sleep. Fatigue makes episodes more likely.

Disclaimer: The content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician regarding any medical condition.