Sleepwalking (somnambulism)

What is sleep walking and why this is a disorder and how it affects the person and his close relations.

1. Sleepwalking (Somnambulism) Dr Vijay Bhatia

2. Definition

3. Criteria - A

4. Criteria - B

5. Criteria - C

6. Criteria - D

7. Criteria - E

8. Sleep walking Sleep walking is an automatism occurring during NON REM sleep, usually in the early part of the night. Most common between ages 5 and 12 years. 15% of children in this age group walk in their sleep at least once. Occasionally, the disorder persists into adult life. Runs in the families. Most children do not actually walk, but sit up and make repetitive movements. Some walk around, usually with their eyes open, in a mechanical manner but avoiding familiar objects.

9. Response They do not respond to questions and are very difficult to wake. They can usually be led back to bed. Most episodes last few seconds or minutes but some can last as long as an hour.

10. Harm AS sleep-walkers can occasionally harm themselves, they need to be protected from injury. Doors and windows should be locked and dangerous objects removed. Adults with severe problems should be given advice about safety, avoidance of sleep deprivation and any other circumstances that might make them excessively sleepy (For example drinking alcohol before going to bed)

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