Sleepwalking, of which the medical term is somnambulism, is a type of parasomnia. Such parasomnias are characterized by undesired events which occur while a person is sleeping.
Sleepwalking involves arising from bed while still asleep and engaging in a series of other complex activities. People typically appear confused, sitting up and searching the area around them. In some cases, they may even hurriedly flee their bed, walking or running to what can only be assumed is a safe place as per whatever threat they dreamed or imagined.
You might be talking or yelling while you walk with a dazed expression in your gaze. You may even start to do regular activities that are not usually done during the night.
Occasionally, sleepwalkers will do bizarre and inappropriate things such as going to the restroom in an unlikely spot, rearranging furniture, or even climbing out of a window. Thankfully, hostile and aggressive behavior is uncommon.
In rare cases, a patient might unexpectedly set off in their car and take a long journey. Adults may experience vivid dreams or visual hallucinations whilst in their sleepwalking state. Additionally, some individuals have also been known to eat during this episode.
It can be difficult to rouse a person who is sleepwalking. Once awoken, they may be disorientated since, as a rule, there is no recollection of the episode. Occasionally, one may recall some aspects of it, and on rare occasions usually have clear recollection of what happened.
At times, you could be aggressive towards the person who wakes you. Men are particularly prone to such violent behavior in these cases. The walking can abruptly cease as well, which puts the individual in an uncomfortable situation. On other occasions, he or she may return to bed without ever becoming conscious during it.
Sleepwalking typically takes place in the early part of the night, or during a longer period of sleep, which is usually the slow-wave cycle. Occasionally, it can happen during a midday snooze.
Occurrences of episodes may be infrequent, or recurrent. They can even occur over a period of consecutive nights. The primary hazard is the potential for harm to oneself, the sleeping partner or any other people in the home. Moreover, it can disrupt the sleep of the person sharing the bed.
Sleepwalking is a typical feature of a young child's slumber. The tranquil sleepwalker may head towards the light or their parents' quarters.
Sleeping children can often find themselves drawn to windows and doors, or even outdoors. This increases their chances of getting injured. Older kids might become more vocal and active during sleepwalking episodes, voicing their dreams or having night terrors.