Understanding Sleepwalking Basics

Sleepwalking, or somnambulism, involves complex behaviors during deep sleep, like walking or performing routines. It's most common in children and typically outgrown.

During sleepwalking, the brain is in a deep sleep state while parts controlling movement activate. It's a unique blend of sleep and wakefulness states.

Sleepwalking can be inherited. If one identical twin sleepwalks, the other is likely to as well. Family history increases the chances significantly.

Several triggers exist: sleep deprivation, fever, stress, alcohol, and sedative agents. Even certain medications or sleep schedule disruptions can prompt an episode.

Conditions like sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, and certain psychiatric disorders have been linked to increased sleepwalking episodes.

Maintaining a regular sleep schedule, creating a safe sleep environment, and managing stress can reduce incidents. Consultation with a sleep specialist might be necessary.

Surprisingly, sleepwalkers are at risk of injury. They're capable of complex actions like driving, with no conscious awareness or memory of events.