We use cookies to give you the best experience possible. By continuing we’ll assume you’re on board with our cookie policy

Sleepwalking

essay
The whole doc is available only for registered users
  • Pages: 2
  • Word count: 330
  • Category: Sleep

A limited time offer! Get a custom sample essay written according to your requirements urgent 3h delivery guaranteed

Order Now

Sleepwalking is a psychological disorder most common in young children and adolescents (Alvarado, 1998). It is characterized by a person walking or doing another activity while he or she is technically asleep (Alvarado, 1998). Non-comprehensive vocalizations might happen, but the sleepwalker often maintains a vague blank look on the face. Causes of Sleepwalking The exact cause of sleepwalking in young children has not yet been established; but psychological research points out that fatigue, lack of enough sleep and general anxiety could be the causes (University of Maryland Medical Center, 2002).

In adults, sleepwalking is commonly associated with mental disorders, depressive illnesses, reaction to alcohol and drug abuse or medical conditions such as partial complex seizures (University of Maryland Medical Center, 2002). When it occurs in elderly people, it may be a symptom of a brain syndrome or Rapid Eye Movement (REM) disorders. A genetic connection has been identified with sleepwalking. Symptoms When people sleepwalk, they usually get up while still in get slumber and walk around while looking like they are actually awake (University of Maryland Medical Center, 2002).

A sleepwalker will often unconsciously undertake complex routines like rearranging furniture, cooking, dressing, undressing or even driving. If undisturbed, a sleepwalker will usually go back to sleep, even if on a different location. He or she will not remember the sleepwalking episode after finally waking up, and will act aggressively if woken in the middle of it. Treatment Most victims of the sleepwalking disorder do not need specific treatment since it is not a serious disorder (University of Maryland Medical Center, 2002).

It is however important to put in place safety mechanisms like moving live cables or obstacles when a sleepwalker is in the house. It is not dangerous to wake a sleepwalker. Adults who exhibit the disorder should avoid alcohol or any other substances that depress the central nervous system. It is also necessary to avoid fatigue and to prevent insomnia as well as any causes of stress, anxiety and conflict (Alvarado, 1998).

Related Topics

We can write a custom essay

According to Your Specific Requirements

Order an essay
icon
300+
Materials Daily
icon
100,000+ Subjects
2000+ Topics
icon
Free Plagiarism
Checker
icon
All Materials
are Cataloged Well

Sorry, but copying text is forbidden on this website. If you need this or any other sample, we can send it to you via email.

By clicking "SEND", you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy. We'll occasionally send you account related and promo emails.
Sorry, but only registered users have full access

How about getting this access
immediately?

Your Answer Is Very Helpful For Us
Thank You A Lot!

logo

Emma Taylor

online

Hi there!
Would you like to get such a paper?
How about getting a customized one?

Can't find What you were Looking for?

Get access to our huge, continuously updated knowledge base

The next update will be in:
14 : 59 : 59