In this Article

• What is sleepwalking?
• What are the causes, incidence, and risk factors of sleepwalking?
• What are associated factors to consider?
• What are symptoms of sleepwalking?
• What are the signs and tests for sleepwalking?
• What other conditions will my doctor consider before diagnosing sleepwalking?
• What is the treatment for sleepwalking?
• What is the prognosis of sleepwalking?
• What are the complications of sleepwalking?
• When should you call your health care practitioner about sleepwalking?
• How can I prevent sleepwalking?
• Sleepwalking At A Glance
• Sleepwalking Glossary
• Sleepwalking Index

What is the prognosis of sleepwalking?

Sleepwalking may or may not reduce with age, as described above. It usually does not indicate a serious disorder, although it can be a symptom of other disorders.

What are the complications of sleepwalking?

A common complication is injury sustained during sleepwalking activities.

When should you call your health care practitioner about sleepwalking?

Sleepwalking usually does not require a visit to your healthcare professional. However, the condition should be discussed with your healthcare professional if sleepwalking:

• is accompanied by other symptoms,
  
  
• is frequent or persistent, or
  
  
• includes potentially dangerous activities (such as driving).

How can I prevent sleepwalking?

• Avoid the use of alcohol or central nervous system depressants if prone to sleepwalking.
  
  
• Avoid fatigue or insomnia, because this can instigate an episode of sleepwalking.
  
  
• Avoid or minimize stress, anxiety, and conflict, which can worsen the condition.

Sleepwalking At A Glance

• Sleepwalking is not a serious disorder, although children can be injured by objects during sleepwalking.
  
  
• Although disruptive and frightening for parents in the short-term, sleepwalking is not associated with long-term complications.
  
  
• Prolonged disturbed sleep may be associated with school and behavioral issues.
  
  
• The outlook for resolution of the disorder is excellent.

Reference: National Institutes of Health (www.nih.gov)

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