Sleepwalking is a sleep disorder that consists of appearing to be awake, even when asleep. People who sleepwalk usually walk with their eyesopen and at first glance it seems that they are awake, but this is not the case. There are many clichés on this subject, promoted by popular culture (especially children’s films and series) so we have compiled the 10 key facts to understand 100% this disorder:
- When does it happen? Sleepwalking occurs between stages 3 and 4 of sleep, before the REM phase, which is the 5th and final phase.
- How long does it usually last? It is a short process, about 15 minutes at most. There have been isolated cases of 30-minute episodes.
- At what age is it most common? It has been discovered that there is a high probability that sleepwalking is due to the immaturity of the brain, which is why it is much more common in children, especially between 5 and 12 years old. It is estimated that 30% of children under 5 years of age have experienced an episode of sleepwalking.
- Are these people resting well? No, at least they do not rest as well as a person who does not suffer from sleepwalking, since it is also related to micro sleep interruptions. For this reason, sleepwalkers usually take naps during the day.
- Can I inherit it? Yes, it has recently been discovered that in a fairly high percentage (60%) there is a pathological history.
- Are there factors that trigger sleepwalking? Yes, some of these risk factors include stress, depression, fatigue , and fever. It can also be related to asthma, arrhythmia and alcoholism.
- What is normal for a sleepwalker to do? The most common thing is for a sleepwalker to walk, talk or perform some task such as dressing or opening and closing doors or windows. They are usually repetitions of some action performed during the day or that has been left pending.
- Do these actions make sense? Their behaviors are not automatic. What they do has a logical motive, at least for them.
- Do they not remember what they do afterwards? Although it is true that children and adolescents do not usually remember what they did when they were sleepwalking, it has been discovered that sleepwalking adults can remember not only what happened, but also their thoughts and feelings at that moment.
- Is it a very common disorder? No, in fact less than 20% of the world’s population suffers from sleepwalking. As we have already said, it is much more common in children.
If there is a sleepwalker at home, you will have to take some basic precautions:
- Do not leave obstacles around the house that the sleepwalker may trip over.
- If there are stairs, put a safety door that is difficult to open.
- The street door must be locked and not left within reach of the sleepwalker.
- Although it is not a great danger if you wake a person up during a sleepwalking episode, it is better not to do so as it will be difficult for them to fall asleep afterwards. It is best to accompany the person to bed, holding them and guiding them by the hand.
By following these tips and knowing the disorder well, it does not have to pose any danger.
