Sleepwalking (cont.)
What are symptoms of sleepwalking?
Following are examples of symptoms of sleepwalking.
- Episodes range from quiet walking around the room to agitated running or
attempts to "escape." The person sleepwalking may appear clumsy and dazed in
his or her behavior.
- Typically, the eyes are open with a glassy, staring appearance as the
person quietly roams around the house. They do not, however, walk with their arms
extended in front of them as is inaccurately depicted in movies.
- On questioning the person sleepwalking, responses are slow with simple thoughts, contain nonsense
phraseology or absent responses. If the person is returned to bed without
awakening, they usually do not remember the event.
- Older children, who may awaken more easily at the end of an episode, often
are embarrassed by the behavior (especially if it was inappropriate). In lieu of
walking, some children perform repeated behaviors (such as straightening their
pajamas). Bedwetting may also occur.
- Sleepwalking is not associated with previous sleep problems, sleeping alone
in a room or with others, fear of the dark (achluophobia), or anger outbursts.
- Some studies suggest that children who sleepwalk may have been more
restless sleepers between the ages of four and five, and more restless with more frequent
awakenings during the first year of life.
What are the signs and tests for sleepwalking?
Usually, no exams and tests are necessary. However, a medical evaluation may
be completed to rule out medical causes of sleepwalking.
Additionally, a psychological evaluation can determine whether excessive
stress or
anxiety is the cause of sleepwalking.
Sleep study tests may be done in persons in whom the diagnosis is still
unclear.
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