Sleepwalking (or somnambulism) is a term used to describe a variety of activities that a person engages in whilst they are still asleep. The person appears to be awake since they are carrying out the actions of a waking person. This action varies. It may just involve sitting up in bed, or the person may get out of bed and walk around. They may leave the room, or sometimes leave the house.There was a case where a sleepwalker in the UK climbed to the top of a crane in her sleep. Sometimes they may carry out a task whilst sleepwalking (people have been know to drive a car whilst sleepwalking). To the bystander, it can be confusing as the eyes are usually open so it is easy to assume the person is awake. Furthermore, a sleepwalker may scream or shout during an episode and may hold a conversation with another person. The sleepwalker generally has no memory of their behaviour.

Sleepwalking occurs during the first few hours after falling asleep. It occurs during Non-REM sleep, usually during stage 3 or 4 when the person is in deep sleep. The sleep cycle is disrupted, so the person goes into deep sleep then partially awakens, missing the lighter stages of sleep. A sleepwalker is neither dreaming nor awake.

Sleepwalking is quite common in children, although adults can be affected too.

Possible causes

There is no recognised cause for sleepwalking. It may be genetic. There is also a possibility that the sleepwalker is overtired, which is why the body does not want to go into light sleep. For children over six years and adults, it may be a result of stress or anxiety.

Potential problems

Sleepwalking can be disturbing for others as they are seeing their loved one engage in normal tasks, whilst asleep. It can be dangerous, if the person’s environment is not made safe. The sleepwalker can easily trip and fall during an episode. If the person is able to leave their room or house, the risks will increase dramatically. Sometimes the sleepwalker can cause harm to the person who is trying to help, as the sleepwalker may feel threatened by their actions.

Treatment

There is no simple cure for sleepwalking. Fortunately it is something children generally grow out of, although it is not known why. Speak to your doctor if you are concerned. They should be able to refer you to a sleep centre. Sometimes hypnosis is used as a form of treatment.

Tips

• Do not wake or talk to a sleepwalker - just help them back to bed. This prevents them from being unduly alarmed when awakening somewhere unexpected.
• Keep their surroundings safe.
• Deal with possible stressful events.
• Make sure they (or you) are getting enough sleep each night.