Have you ever gone to sleep in your bed and woken up on the couch of your living room? Or perhaps you woke up in the kitchen hunting for a midnight snack? What’s happening with you is actually termed as ‘sleepwalking’. More common among children than adults, sleepwalking can put you at a higher risk of suffering physical injuries. So, whether it’s you or a loved one who sleepwalks, don’t pass it off as something trivial. This article will tell you everything you need to know about sleepwalking and how to get rid of this behaviour.
What is sleepwalking?
Sleepwalking, also known as somnambulism, is classified as a parasomnia that involves walking or performing activities while in deep sleep. In sleepwalking, you get up from your bed and start walking around even though you are actually asleep. In such a state, you are stuck between wakefulness and sleep which is why you probably won’t have any memory of the event.
Symptoms of sleepwalking
During an episode of sleepwalking, you may sit up, walk around, and even perform ordinary activities — all while sleeping. Your eyes might be open, but you’re actually still in a deep state of sleep. Contrary to popular belief, sleepwalking doesn’t always include walking! Here are symptoms of sleepwalking:
- Have a glazed, glassy-eyed expression
- Don’t respond or talk to others
- Attempt to get dressed, cook or do other routine chores
- Experience confusion after waking up
What causes sleepwalking?
Sleepwalking usually has multiple causes, and the causes of sleepwalking can differ from one individual to another. Some of the most common causes of sleepwalking include:
- Genetics, as sleepwalking tends to run in families
- Other sleep disorders, like sleep apnea, that interrupt one’s sleep
- Illnesses and fevers
- Chronic sleep deprivation
- Migraines
- Certain medications including sleeping pills
- Head or brain injuries
Why is sleepwalking dangerous?
Sleepwalking becomes dangerous only when the possibility exists of the sleepwalker accidentally injuring himself or herself. Though most episodes of sleepwalking are harmless, there are times when it can be dangerous if you are not careful.
For example, a sleepwalker might wander outside the house, exposing themselves to traffic or natural elements. Within the home, sleepwalkers may attempt unsafe tasks such as using kitchen appliances or handling sharp objects. They can also fall down stairs or trip over objects while sleepwalking. In some instances, sleepwalkers can engage in risky behaviours like attempting to drive, putting both themselves and people on the road at serious risk.
How to reduce sleepwalking
In many cases, sleepwalking requires no active treatment because episodes are rare and pose little risk to the sleeper or those around them. However, there are times when such episodes are so frequent that they disrupt your own sleep routine and also trouble others around you. In such cases, RightLife’s SleepRight program can help you treat sleepwalking with the proper observance of sleep hygiene and using sleep aids.
Sleep Aids
Among the best features of SleepRight would be sleep aids - soothing short audio stories and resonators, nature sounds, or comforting ragas that prepare your mind and body for restful, uninterrupted sleep. Sleep aids with calming music and sounds are useful in promoting a better quality sleep which reduces the chances of a sleepwalking episode.
Sleep hygiene
The SleepRight program also promotes sleep hygiene management, which is important in regulating sleepwalking. It helps you maintain a routine before bedtime and an environment that facilitates sleep. SleepRight suggests that maintaining regular sleep, having your bedroom quiet, cool and free of disturbances, helps to improve sleep hygiene. Reducing screen time before bedtime and not drinking caffeine or alcohol close to bedtime can also improve sleep hygiene.
Another approach of the SleepRight program is safety measures. In scenarios where the sleepwalker has the tendency to perform harmful acts it provides useful recommendations like locking doors, securing windows, and clearing the bedroom from any probable obstacles in the event that can cause harm during an episode.
Sleepwalking is an intriguing phenomenon. The fact that you're sleeping while performing physical feats is pretty amazing. How can a person be unconscious but still coordinate his or her limbs in order to walk, talk and, sometimes, even drive? How do we know when we're really awake?
It prevents sleepwalking but improves overall sleep quality by combining the soothing effects of sleep aids with effective sleep hygiene practices. The comprehensive approach SleepRight provides addresses not only the root causes of sleepwalking but also promotes better sleep health over the long term. Take your nights back with the help of SleepRight today and dream safely to prevent sleepwalking and enjoy deep restful sleep tonight.
