SleepwalkingMichael Jubinville, MPH DefinitionSleepwalking is a type of sleep disorder. A person who is sleepwalking may walk around or do other complex behaviors while still asleep. It may be as simple as sitting up in bed or as complex as leaving the house and going for a drive. CausesIt is not clear what causes sleepwalking. Some people are more likely to sleepwalk than others. The sleepwalking may be triggered by:
Risk FactorsSleepwalking is more common in children up to about 12 years old. But, it can last into adulthood. Your chances of sleepwalking are higher if you have:
SymptomsSleepwalking is the most common symptom. It may also be with:
DiagnosisYou will be asked about your symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done. You may have:
TreatmentThe most common methods are: Strategies to Prevent InjuryYou will need to:
HypnosisSome cases of sleepwalking can be treated with hypnosis. AwakeningYou will be asked to keep track of what time of night the sleepwalking tends to occur. You then schedule a wake up just before that time. This may help stop the sleepwalking. MedicinesMedicines that may help reduce sleepwalking:
PreventionTo help lower the chances of sleepwalking:
RESOURCES:Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians https://www.familydoctor.org National Sleep Foundation https://sleepfoundation.org CANADIAN RESOURCES:About Kids Health—The Hospital for Sick Children https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca Better Sleep Council Canada http://www.bettersleep.ca References:
Sleepwalking. EBSCO DynaMed Plus website. Available at:
http://www.dynamed.com/topics/dmp~AN~T115035/Sleepwalking
. Updated June 27, 2017. Accessed August 22, 2018.
Sleepwalking. Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at:
https://familydoctor.org/condition/sleepwalking. Updated April 1, 2014. Accessed August 22, 2018. Sleepwalking. National Sleep Foundation website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Accessed August 22, 2018. Last reviewed May 2018 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Marcin Chwistek, MD Last Updated: 8/22/2018 | |
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