Sleepwalking, also known as Somnambulism, is a sleep disorder characterised by complex behaviours or actions performed during sleep. It falls under the category of Parasomnia, which refers to abnormal behaviours, movements, or experiences during sleep. Sleepwalking typically occurs during the non-rapid eye movement (NREM) stages of sleep, most commonly in the first half of the night.
During an episode of sleepwalking, individuals may engage in various activities while remaining asleep. These activities can range from simple actions such as sitting up in bed or walking around the room to more complex behaviours like dressing, eating, or even driving a car. Sleepwalkers often have a blank expression on their faces, and their movements can be slow, clumsy, or purposeful.
The exact cause of sleepwalking is not fully understood, but there are several factors that can contribute to its occurrence. These factors may include:
Genetic predisposition: Sleepwalking tends to run in families, suggesting a genetic component.
Sleep deprivation: Lack of sufficient sleep or poor sleep quality can increase the likelihood of sleepwalking.
Sleep schedule disruptions: Abrupt changes in sleep patterns, such as shift work or irregular sleep schedules, can trigger episodes.
Fever or illness: Sleepwalking can be more common during times of illness or fever.
Stress and anxiety: Emotional stress or anxiety can contribute to sleepwalking in some individuals.
Medications: Certain medications, such as sedatives or hypnotics, may increase the risk of sleepwalking.
Sleepwalking episodes usually last for a few minutes, but they can extend to longer durations in some cases.
The sleepwalker is typically difficult to awaken and may not recall the episode upon waking. However, they may experience confusion, disorientation, or vague memories of their sleepwalking behaviour.
Treatment for sleepwalking depends on the frequency and severity of the episodes and any associated risks. In milder cases, simple measures can be helpful, such as ensuring a safe sleeping environment (e.g., removing obstacles) and maintaining a regular sleep schedule. If sleepwalking poses a danger to the individual or others, more intensive interventions may be necessary, such as medication or cognitive-behavioural therapy.