How and why does sleepwalking occur?

Sleepwalking, also known as somnambulism, is a fascinating sleep disorder that has baffled and captivated humanity for centuries. From its first mentions in ancient texts to modern scientific research, sleepwalking has intrigued doctors, scientists, and everyday people alike. In this article, we will delve into the world of sleepwalking, exploring its history, causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and its implications for everyday life.

History of sleepwalking.

Sleepwalking is not a new phenomenon. It has been documented in literature and medical records since ancient times. The first writings about sleepwalking are believed to date back to ancient Greece, where it was mentioned in the works of Hippocrates and Galen. These ancient doctors believed that sleepwalking was related to imbalances in body fluids, a common theory in medicine at the time.

During the Middle Ages, sleepwalking was often associated with demonic possession and other superstitions. However, in the 19th century, the rise of modern medicine led to greater scientific interest and understanding of the disorder.

What is sleepwalking?

Sleepwalking is a sleep disorder characterized by complex motor activities performed during deep sleep. Although people who suffer from sleepwalking can perform a variety of actions while they are asleep, from walking to eating, they often have a complete lack of awareness of their actions and do not remember anything once they wake up.

Causes of sleepwalking.

The exact causes of sleepwalking are not yet fully understood, but it is believed to be the result of a combination of genetic, neurological and environmental factors. Some of these factors include:

• Genetics: Sleepwalking tends to be more common in people whose family members also suffer from it, suggesting a genetic predisposition to the disorder.
• Stress and fatigue: Emotional stress and lack of sleep can trigger sleepwalking episodes in susceptible people.
• Sleep disorders: Sleepwalking may be associated with other sleep disorders, such as obstructive sleep apnea syndrome or restless legs syndrome.

Symptoms of sleepwalking.

Symptoms of sleepwalking can range from simple activities, such as sitting in bed, to more complex actions, such as walking long distances or even driving a car. Some of the common symptoms include:

• Walking or performing motor activities during deep sleep.
• Talking or mumbling incoherently.
• Show a lack of response to external stimuli.
• Do not remember sleepwalking episodes upon waking up.

Diagnosis of sleepwalking.

Sleepwalking, a sleep disorder in which people get up and walk while asleep, presents significant challenges in its diagnosis due to its complex and varied nature. To address this phenomenon, it is crucial to understand the different phases of sleepwalking and the clinical tools used in its diagnosis.

Phases of sleepwalking:

Sleepwalking is characterized by several different phases that can help in its precise diagnosis:

Sleep onset: Sleepwalking often occurs during the first few hours of deep sleep, in the stage known as slow wave sleep or N3 sleep. During this phase, the body is in its most relaxed state, facilitating partial awakening and motor activity without full consciousness.

Sleepwalking episode: During this phase, the individual gets out of bed and can walk or perform simple actions while remaining in a semi-awake state. Although their eyes may be open, their gaze is usually glassy and their behavior is mechanical and devoid of rationality.

Return to sleep: After the sleepwalking activity, the person can return to bed without remembering the episode upon completely waking up.

Clinical tools for diagnosis:

The diagnosis of sleepwalking requires a complete evaluation that may include the following clinical tools:

Medical history: The doctor will conduct a detailed interview to gather information about the patient's medical history, including sleep habits, family history of sleep disorders, and any recent traumatic events that may be related.

Sleep diary: Keeping a sleep diary can be invaluable in identifying sleepwalking patterns. Recording the onset time, duration, and any triggering events can provide important diagnostic clues.

Polysomnography: This sleep study records multiple physiological variables during sleep, such as brain activity, muscle activity, and breathing. Although sleepwalking is often diagnosed clinically, PSG may be helpful in ruling out other concurrent sleep disorders.

Actigraphy: This technique records the patient's motor activity during sleep through the use of a portable device called an actigraph. It can provide objective information about the movements associated with sleepwalking.

Treatment of sleepwalking.

Treatment for sleepwalking varies depending on the severity and frequency of episodes, as well as the patient's individual needs. Some common treatment strategies include:

• Create a safe environment: Remove dangerous objects or block access to dangerous areas to prevent injury during sleepwalking episodes.
• Manage stress and improve sleep hygiene: Reducing stress and maintaining a regular sleep routine can help prevent sleepwalking episodes.
• Behavioral therapy: Cognitive behavioral therapy can help identify and address underlying factors that contribute to sleepwalking.
• Medication: In severe cases, medications may be prescribed to help control sleepwalking episodes, although their effectiveness may vary.

Implications in everyday life.

Sleepwalking can have several implications on daily life, both for those who suffer from it and for their family and loved ones. Sleepwalking episodes can be dangerous, especially if risky activities occur during sleep, such as walking up stairs or going outside. Additionally, sleepwalking can cause fatigue and daytime sleepiness, which can affect academic or work performance and overall quality of life.

Sleepwalking is an intriguing sleep disorder that has fascinated humanity for centuries. Although there is still much to learn about its causes and underlying mechanisms, advances in medical and scientific research are shedding light on this mysterious phenomenon. With greater understanding and awareness, we can help those who suffer from sleepwalking manage and control their symptoms, thereby improving their quality of life and safety.