Sleepwalking, also known as somnambulism, is a disorder that causes people to get up, walk and even perform some complex tasks while asleep without any subsequent memory of the episode. It happens when a person is in a transitional stage from sleeping to waking. Most sleepwalkers are children between the ages of four and eight, though some adults sleepwalk too. It is a myth that we should not wake up a sleepwalker because it can incite heart attack. Experts say that it may not be too easy to awaken a sleepwalker, but it is doing much more good than harm to do so as you can save him or her from possible injuries.
Sleepwalking tends to run in families as it may be associated with genetic factors. If you have a family member who sleepwalks, you are ten times more likely to suffer from this disorder. Experts also believe that common triggers for sleepwalking include sleep deprivation, fever, heart rhythm problems, stress and certain medications such as sedatives, hypnotics, stimulants and antihistamines. It is also found to be linked with sleep apnea. Children who wet their beds are more likely to have sleepwalking too.
Most people grow out of the disorder or it can be alleviated with a regular sleep schedule and stress reduction. It is always a good idea to talk to your family doctor to find out the root cause of the problem and tailor treatment accordingly.
| JPC Monthly Newsletter | |
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