Sleepwalking (somnambulism) is a sleep disorder where individuals perform activities typically associated with wakefulness while still in a state of sleep. This phenomenon arises during deep, non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep, creating a unique blend of sleep and partial arousal. Understanding the indicators of sleepwalking can help individuals recognize when someone is experiencing such an episode. This article details the observable behaviors and physical signs, along with appropriate immediate responses and situations warranting professional medical advice.
Observable Actions
During a sleepwalking episode, individuals exhibit a range of behaviors. Common actions include getting out of bed and walking around the room or house. They might sit upright in bed or engage in routine tasks such as dressing, rearranging objects, or preparing and eating food.
Sleepwalkers may attempt more elaborate actions like trying to leave the house or driving a car. They might also mumble or speak, though their speech is often incoherent or nonsensical. Episodes typically last from a few seconds to 30 minutes.
Physical Cues and Responsiveness
When someone is sleepwalking, their physical appearance and level of awareness provide cues. Their eyes are open, but they may have a blank, glassy, or unfocused stare. The individual might appear confused or disoriented, reflecting their state of partial consciousness.
It can be difficult to rouse a sleepwalker, and they may not respond to verbal attempts to communicate. A notable characteristic is their lack of memory regarding the episode upon waking. While their motor cortex, involved in movement, shows wake-like activity, areas of the brain associated with conscious awareness remain in a deep sleep state. This incongruity explains their ability to move without conscious control or recollection.
Immediate Actions to Take
If you encounter someone who is sleepwalking, prioritizing their safety is important. The primary approach involves gently guiding them back to bed rather than attempting to startle them awake. Abruptly waking a sleepwalker can lead to confusion, distress, agitation, or an aggressive reaction.
During the episode, remove any potential hazards from their path, such as clearing clutter or securing doors and windows. If redirection to bed is not immediately possible, stay with them to prevent injury. If waking becomes necessary for safety reasons, do so gently, using soft speech and avoiding sudden movements or bright lights, as they may still experience disorientation.
Understanding When to Seek Help
While occasional sleepwalking episodes may not require intervention, certain circumstances suggest the need for professional medical evaluation. Seek help if episodes occur frequently, such as more than once a week or several times a month. Medical attention is also needed if sleepwalking leads to injury or places the individual or others in dangerous situations.
Consider professional consultation if sleepwalking significantly disrupts daily life, resulting in excessive daytime tiredness or problems with functioning. Additionally, if sleepwalking begins for the first time in adulthood without an apparent cause, or if it is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, a healthcare provider can assess for underlying conditions.