Sleepwalking Solutions & When Wandering Becomes Worrisome
At Snoring and Sleep Solutions of Nevada, ensuring restorative slumber remains our priority. For some, periods of somnambulism interrupt nightly rest, leading to accidents or distress according to studies.
Often beginning in childhood, episodes may persist into adulthood for approximately 4% of people. While generally harmless, avoiding danger becomes important when sleepwalking frequency increases. Let’s explore effective solutions promoting safe unconscious wandering.
What causes sleepwalking remains uncertain, but genetics appear to play a role. Episodes are also associated with psychiatric conditions, sleeping pills/supplements, stress, fever, or sleep deprivation.
Most common in children aged 6-12, up to 50% will outgrow it by puberty. However, 3-5% of adults may experience occasional bouts triggered by similar factors.
Minor episodes require no treatment, but evaluating for medical conditions becomes prudent if frequent or risky behavior emerges like operating machinery or leaving the home unintentionally.
Establishing safety precautions helps avoid injury through unaware interactions. Motion-activated cameras monitor for episodes while alarms on exterior points of entry alert the family to redirection.
Several remedies exist when bothersome somnambulism persists according to research. Establishing a relaxing pre-bed routine including exercise, diet modification, and reducing screen time puts the mind and body into a calm state of readiness for rest.
Consistent sleep schedules signal the brain when to expect rest through circadian resetting as well.
For some, behavior modification training programs teach safe responses upon awakening like returning to bed instead of operating dangerous items.
In rare, severe cases pharmaceuticals may help reduce occurrences such as prazosin, an anti-hypertensive shown to decrease activity during REM sleep. However, medications should only be considered under medical supervision given potential side effects.
Our complimentary evaluations explore triggers and lifestyle patterns identifying mitigations restoring secure unconscious wandering habits.
Educational resources empower caregivers with prevention strategies ensuring all within a home can slumber soundly. With non-invasive support, both children and adults find solace through longer, safer unconscious periods of recovery each night.
