Sleepwalkers

Sleepwalking is a disorder that involves a person walking around while they are asleep. Despite its name, sleepwalkers also do other activities like cooking or using the bathroom. They may seem like they are wide awake though they aren't. It's typical in children but they grow out of it eventually.

 Symptoms include

• Eyes open
• Blank face
• Appear awake
• Walking
• Forgetting sleep walking when they wake up
• Confused or disoriented when they wake up
• Sleep talking

These episodes can be very brief. The person could wake up at anytime. People have been known to do extremely strange things when they are sleeping like driving to the store and shopping. Though it may be convenient to sleep and shop at the same time, it is also dangerous. They could walk into traffic or drink a bottle of bleach.

It is believed that sleepwalkers should not be woken during an episode. They are just as aggressive as any other person who is woken up during a good sleep. They may be a bit disoriented but they won't try to kill you.

The exact cause of sleepwalking is unknown. It can happen at any age but it is most common at ages 4-10. The list below are possible triggers.

• Mental disorders
• Reactions to drugs
• Medical conditions
• Fever
• Insomnia
• Anxiety
• Chaotic sleep schedules
• Genetics

 People generally don't need need treatment because they usually grow out of it. A doctor should be called when the person shows aggressive behavior, has frequent episodes, or is injuring themselves.

There are simple things that can be done to keep the sleepwalker safe and prevent episodes.

• Lock doors and windows
• Block off stairs
• Get enough sleep
• Meditate
• Keep a safe sleep space
• If necessary, place an alarm on the door