Sleepwalking
Sleepwalking, also known as somnambulism, is a parasomnia disorder that is characterized by walking or performing other complex behaviors while in a state of sleep.
Incidence
It is a common and benign condition that affects approximately 3-4% of the general population, and is most common in children and adolescents.
Cause
The exact cause of sleepwalking is still not well understood, but it is thought to be related to a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Some of the factors that may contribute to sleepwalking include sleep deprivation, stress, alcohol and drug use, and certain medical conditions such as sleep apnea and narcolepsy.
Typical episode
During a sleepwalking episode, the individual is in a state of partial arousal, and may walk around the house, perform simple or complex tasks, or even leave the house and engage in wandering. The person is typically unresponsive to stimuli and does not remember the episode upon waking.
Risks
It is important to note that sleepwalking is generally not dangerous and is typically a benign condition. However, it can become a problem if it is associated with injury or causes disruption to the individual's sleep or the sleep of others. In these cases, treatment may be necessary to address the underlying causes and prevent future sleepwalking episodes.
Management
Diagnosis is usually made clinically although a sleep study may be ordered to rule out other causes. Treatment for sleepwalking typically involves addressing any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to the sleepwalking episodes. This may include treating sleep apnea, reducing stress and anxiety, and avoiding alcohol and drugs that can interfere with sleep.
Treatment
In addition, behavioral therapies such as sleep hygiene and relaxation techniques, and certain medications such as benzodiazepines may be recommended to help reduce the frequency and severity of sleepwalking episodes. In more severe cases, medications such as benzodiazepines may be prescribed to help control sleepwalking episodes.
Summary
Sleepwalking is a common and benign sleep disorder that is characterized by walking or performing other complex behaviors while in a state of sleep. While it is generally not dangerous, it can become a problem if it is associated with injury or causes disruption to sleep. Treatment for sleepwalking typically involves addressing any underlying medical conditions, practicing good sleep hygiene, and using behavioral and/or pharmacological therapies as needed.
References
- Ohayon, M. M. (2002). Prevalence of sleepwalking and sleep related eating disorder. Sleep, 25(7), 751-755.
- American Academy of Sleep Medicine (2014). International Classification of Sleep Disorders, Third Edition. Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine.
- Schenck, C. H., & Mahowald, M. W. (2002). Sleepwalking and sleep-related eating disorder. The Lancet Neurology, 1(3), 152-157.
| Sleep medicine navigation. | |
|---|---|
| Sleep disorders | |
| Anatomical | |
| Dyssomnias | |
| Circadian rhythm disorders | |
| Parasomnias | |
| Benign phenomena | |
| Treatment | |
W8MD Weight Loss, Sleep & Medspa Centers
- New York:
- Brooklyn: W8MD's NYC Medical Weight Loss, sleep and medspa 2632 E.21st Street Ste L3, Brooklyn, New York 11235. Call (718) 946 5500
- Pennsylvania
- Philadelphia: Poly-Tech Sleep & W8MD Philadelphia Medical Weight Loss 1718, Welsh Rd, Philadelphia, PA, 19115. Call (215) 676 2334
- King of Prussia: Poly-Tech Sleep & W8MD King of Prussia Medical Weight Loss, Sleep and Medspa 175 Strafford Avenue, Wayne PA 19087 - Executive Commons Ste 1. (215) 676-2334.
- New Jersey
- Cherry Hill: (coming soon) W8MD's New Jersey Weight Loss, Sleep Clinic 140 E Evesham Rd, Cherry Hill, NJ 08003 (215) 676 2334