Sleepwalking: Causes, Risks, and Treatment
What is Sleepwalking?
Sleepwalking, also known as somnambulism, is a condition where a person behaves as if they are awake while they are still asleep. They may walk, talk, or perform routine activities all while sound asleep.
Causes of Sleepwalking
There are several potential causes of sleepwalking, including:
- Certain Medications: Common triggers for sleepwalking are substances such as alcohol and some medicines, including prescription insomnia medications like Ambien, Lunesta, and Sonata.
- Stress: Research suggests that stressful events during the day are one of the primary triggers in adults who sleepwalk.
- Sleep Deprivation: Lack of sleep, irregular sleep, and fatigue can trigger an episode of sleepwalking.
- Migraine: Migraine and sleep abnormalities, such as sleepwalking, teeth-grinding, and nightmares, often go hand in hand.
- Fever: Illness or fever, especially in children, can trigger sleepwalking.
- Breathing Disorders: The prevalence of sleepwalking is higher in people with obstructive sleep apnea, a condition in which you repeatedly stop breathing during the night.
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Studies show that GERD is associated with sleep disturbances such as shorter sleep duration and poor sleep quality.
Is Sleepwalking Dangerous?
Sleepwalkers can often navigate around familiar territory, but they do have impaired perception and judgment, which puts them at risk of injury due to trips and falls. A person who is sleepwalking may not recognize the potential hazards of sharp objects. Sleepwalkers may put themselves in life-threatening situations through activities like cooking, climbing out windows, or even driving.
How Is Sleepwalking Diagnosed and Treated?
Sleepwalking is typically diagnosed based on medical history and discussion of symptoms. Eyewitness accounts or video of the event can be helpful. A physical examination can inform the next steps if your healthcare provider suspects an underlying sleep disorder or other condition. In some cases, sleep studies, which measure how well you sleep and how your body reacts to sleep problems, can help diagnose sleep disorders.
Creating a Safe Environment
It’s important to create a safe environment for sleepwalkers, clearing the area of any hazards. Roughly waking a sleepwalker by yelling or shaking them can cause confusion or anger. But you can try to gently guide them back to bed or wake them if necessary.
When to Contact a Healthcare Provider
See a healthcare provider if:
- Sleepwalking happens regularly
- It involves dangerous behaviors
- You’re experiencing excessive daytime sleepiness
- You’re having trouble dealing with stress
- You have other bothersome symptoms
Summary
Sleepwalking is a condition where a person looks and acts awake when sound asleep. This can happen when you’re sleep-deprived, sick, or stressed out. It can also be a symptom of a condition such as sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, or Parkinson’s disease. Sleepwalking doesn’t usually require treatment on its own. However, persistent sleepwalking can lead to daytime fatigue and prevent others from getting a good night’s sleep. See a healthcare provider if sleepwalking involves dangerous activities, happens frequently, or accompanies other symptoms. Diagnosing and treating an underlying condition may help resolve sleepwalking.
