Sleep Walking Specialist

What is Somnambulism/Sleep Walking?

Somnambulism, better known as sleepwalking, is a sleep disorder that causes involuntary complex body movements during a deep stage of sleep. Other than walking, patients often perform involuntary tasks such as sitting at the edge of the bed or talking, all while being unconscious. Though this disorder mainly affects children, adults can also develop this disorder if they are stressed or sleep deprived, putting a strain on healthy sleeping patterns and everyday life.

What Causes Sleep Walking?

Sleepwalking in children is linked to the brain’s inability to control sleep and wake cycles. This occurs because of an arousal caused by non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep. Some common causes of the sleepwalking disorder can include:

• Lack of Sleep or Fatigue
• Insufficient Sleep Caused by Sleep Apnea
• Severe Anxiety
• High Fever
• Noisy Sleeping Environments
• Family History of Sleepwalking
• Medications Containing Phenothiazines, Chloral Hydrate, or Lithium

Some of the Most Common Symptoms Include:

• Sitting Upright or on the Edge of the Bed While Asleep
• Acting Confused or Distorted When Waking Up
• Aggressive Behavior When Being Woken Up
• Sleep Talking
• Extreme Fatigue
• Insomnia
• Depression
• Anxiety

How Is This Disorder Diagnosed?

The disorder can be diagnosed by administering an electroencephalogram (EEG) on a patient to analyzes abnormal sleep patterns. The EEG is placed on the scalp of the patient using wires, and a computer records brain abnormal wavelength while the patient sleeps in a controlled environment. If there are significant irregularities in brain activity during sleep, paired with physical symptoms, a patient can have an accurate diagnosis.

How Is Somnambulism Treated?

There is no direct treatment for this disorder, however, improving sleep hygiene and making recommended changes can help correct the disorder. Addressing existing conditions like obstructive sleep apnea, seizures, restless leg syndrome, and insomnia can help reduce the reoccurrence of this disorder. A doctor may recommend sleep medications or sedatives that prevent patients from performing hazardous tasks during rest.