Sleepwalking, also known as somnambulism, is a sleep disorder where individuals perform various activities while remaining in a state of sleep. This phenomenon often raises questions, particularly regarding the safety of waking a sleepwalker. This article provides insights into the science behind sleepwalking and practical guidance for managing episodes, ensuring the safety of the individual and those around them.
What Happens During Sleepwalking
Sleepwalking episodes occur during the deepest stages of non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep, specifically N3 or slow-wave sleep, usually within the first third of the night. During these episodes, individuals are not fully awake but can perform a range of actions. These behaviors can be as simple as sitting up in bed or walking around a room, or as complex as performing routine tasks like getting dressed, moving furniture, or driving a car.
A sleepwalker’s eyes are often open and may appear glazed or blank. They are typically unresponsive or minimally responsive to communication. They usually have no memory of the sleepwalking event upon waking. Several factors can contribute to sleepwalking episodes, including sleep deprivation, high levels of stress, fever, and the use of certain medications or alcohol. Genetic predisposition also plays a role, with sleepwalking often running in families.
The Safety of Waking a Sleepwalker
A common misconception suggests that waking a sleepwalker can cause severe harm, such as a heart attack, brain damage, or profound shock. Scientific evidence does not support these beliefs; waking a sleepwalker does not inherently cause such physical trauma. However, abruptly awakening someone from deep sleep can lead to immediate disorientation, confusion, and a startled reaction.
This sudden arousal can trigger a “fight or flight” response, causing the sleepwalker to become agitated, frightened, or even aggressive. The concern with waking a sleepwalker is not the act of waking itself, but the potential for them to accidentally injure themselves or others due to this disorientation or startled reaction. They might stumble, fall, lash out, or run into objects if they are confused or feel threatened. Therefore, while not medically dangerous, waking a sleepwalker should be approached with caution, prioritizing their safety from accidental harm.
Practical Steps When Someone Sleepwalks
When encountering a sleepwalker, the safest approach is to gently guide them back to bed without fully waking them. Using a calm, soft voice and gentle touch can help redirect them. If waking becomes necessary due to an immediate danger, such as the sleepwalker being near stairs or a window, it should be done very gently, perhaps by softly calling their name.
Ensuring a safe environment is a proactive measure. This involves:
- Removing potential obstacles from pathways.
- Locking doors and windows.
- Installing gates at the top of staircases.
- Keeping sharp objects, car keys, and other hazardous items out of reach.
- Avoiding bunk beds for children to prevent falls and injuries.
Addressing underlying factors can also help reduce the frequency of sleepwalking episodes. Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, ensuring adequate sleep, and managing stress levels through relaxation techniques can be beneficial. If sleepwalking episodes are frequent, lead to injuries, significantly disrupt sleep, or involve dangerous behaviors, seeking advice from a medical professional or sleep specialist is advisable. They can assess for underlying conditions and recommend appropriate management strategies or treatments.