Why do people sleepwalk, what causes somnambulism, can you stop it and just how common is it?
SLEEPWALKING is far more common than many people think, affecting at least 20 per cent of children.
But what makes people stand up and move around during the night, is there a cure and should you wake a sleepwalker up?
What is sleepwalking?
Sleepwalking, medically known as somnambulism, is the term used to describe someone carrying out activities while they are not fully conscious.
This includes walking around and completing tasks when you're not awake.
Typically, somnambulism occurs for around ten minutes when you're in a state of deep sleep.
This is usually in the first few hours after you first doze off.
- not getting enough sleep
- stress and anxiety
- infection with a fever (especially in children)
- drinking too much alcohol
- taking recreational drugs
- certain types of medication, such as some sedatives
- being startled by a sudden noise or touch, causing abrupt waking from a deep sleep
- waking up suddenly from a deep sleep because you need to go to the toilet
- experiencing restless legs syndrome
- suffering from obstructive sleep apnoea
What should I do if I see someone sleepwalking?
While it may be your gut instinct to abruptly awaken a sleepwalker, this isn't always advisable.
Someone who is semi-conscious may lash out if they are startled during these episodes.
Instead, talking or gently guiding the sleepwalker back to bed is recommended.
If they are putting themselves in danger, try to awaken them softly.
Is there a cure for sleepwalking?
Often, sleepwalking is not dangerous and doesn't have a huge impact on people's lives.
But on World Sleep Day 2019 (March 15), the World Sleep Society explained a lack of continuous, deep and long sleep can lead to significant health risks.
If you put yourself in danger while in this semi-conscious state, it's also advisable to visit your local GP.
You may then be referred to a specialist sleep expert, who will go through your symptoms in more detail.
The NHS recommends more ways to prevent somnambulism:
- try to go to bed at a similar time each night
- make sure your bedroom is dark and quiet when you go to sleep
- limit drinks before bedtime, particularly those containing caffeine, and go to the toilet before going to sleep
- find ways to relax before going to bed, such as having a warm bath, reading or deep breathing
What are the most extreme cases of sleepwalking?
A 20-year-old student hasn't had a proper night's sleep in FOUR years because she sleepwalks.
Nancy Lewendon also battles extreme night terrors that leave her feeling panicked during the night.
In October 2016, chronic sleepwalker Mel Ould spoke about living with somnambulism.
The 23-year-old admitted that she is able to make cups of tea and get ready for work when she's not fully awake.
And the bizarre cases don't end there.
An Aberdeen sleepwalker recalled walking one mile in her sleep to fetch a watermelon from Asda.
And mum Gill Vickers admitted that somnambulism turns her into a violent, knife-wielding boozer.