Sleepwalking causes – Part 9

Sleepwalking is a disorder during which a sleeping person may leave their bed and move around, even going through other physical actions such as eating. Although it is a harmless disorder, people can come to physical harm as a result of sleeping, for example by walking into a sharp object or trying to walk out of a window. What is known about this sleeping disorder is that it occurs during the third and fourth stages of the sleep cycle.

Medical experts are divided about the causes of sleepwalking, particularly in the case of children, where it is difficult to accurately assess the root cause of the problem. However many such experts agree that it may be brought about as a result of anxiety, extreme tiredness or as just another expression of stress and worry.

However, the opinion with regard to adults is different, where the disorder is less prevalent, although it is still estimated that around 10% suffer bouts of sleepwalking.

In adults it is generally considered that there may be a number of root causes of sleepwalking. For example: -

1) It can be linked to some kind of psychological condition, in other words a disturbance of the mind, which could also result from something stressful that has happened in a person’s life.

2) The condition in adults can be triggered as a side effect of drug or alcohol use and abuse. Excessive drinking for long periods of time can create a psychological and physical environment within the person that can trigger sleepwalking episodes.

3) Medical conditions such as certain seizures types can also cause the disorder.

4). Old age is a contributory factor. This is because the elderly are more likely to suffer from brain disorders that can create sleepwalking episodes.

Whilst it general sleepwalking is not a life threatening disorder, it is always wise to seek medical advice if one has the symptoms.