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Sleepwalking Treatment & Preventive Methods

Sandeep Dhanyamraju MD
Medically reviewed by Sandeep Dhanyamraju
Sandeep Dhanyamraju MD
Medically reviewed by Sandeep Dhanyamraju

Sleepwalking, also known as somnambulism, is a sleep disorder in which a person walks or performs other activities while asleep. Fortunately, there are several effective treatments and preventive methods available for sleepwalking:

  • Treatment of underlying medical conditions
  • Medication
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy
  • Relaxation techniques
  • Safety measures
  • Sleep hygiene practices
  • Avoiding triggers

These methods help:

  • Reduce the frequency and severity of sleepwalking episodes;
  • And improve sleep quality and safety.

It is estimated that up to 29% of the general population can experience sleepwalking at some point in their lives. 

Most cases of sleepwalking are harmless. But it can be dangerous if a person:

  • Wanders into dangerous areas;
  • Or engages in activities that could harm themselves or others.

Whether you or someone experience this disorder, in this article, we will explore the various options for treating sleepwalking with:

  • Medication;
  • Therapy;
  • Lifestyle changes;
  • Preventive methods to reduce the likelihood of sleepwalking episodes.

By exploring the various treatment options outlined in this guide, you can take the necessary steps to manage this disorder and improve your sleep quality. 

Sleepwalking Diagnosis

The diagnosis of sleepwalking typically involves:

  • A combination of a medical history review
  • A physical examination
  • And a sleep study

Let’s consider these diagnosis methods in more detail:

  • Medical History Review
During the medical history review, the doctor will ask a series of questions about:

  • Patient’s sleep patterns;
  • And experiences. 

This can include questions about:

  • Frequency and duration of these episodes;
  • Any injuries that can have occurred during sleepwalking;
  • And whether the patient has:
    – any other sleep disorders;

– or medical conditions contributing to this disturbance. 

The doctor can also ask about the patient’s medication use. Since certain medications can increase the risk of sleepwalking.

  • Physical Examination
This type of sleepwalking diagnosis helps identify any underlying medical conditions. The doctor will typically perform a full physical exam, checking for:

  • Sleep Study
A sleep study is also known as polysomnography. It is the most effective way for a sleepwalking diagnosis. This test involves spending a night in a sleep lab, where:

  • Patient’s sleep patterns;
  • And brain activity is monitored using various sensors and devices. 

The sleep study helps:

  • Identify any disruptions in the patient’s sleep patterns;
  • Rule out other sleep disorders causing similar symptoms.

sleepwalking treatment

Sleepwalking Treatment 

Treatment options for sleepwalking include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy
  • Relaxation techniques
  • Scheduled awakenings
  • Safety measures
  • Treatment of underlying medical conditions
  • Sleep hygiene practices 
  • Avoiding alcohol, caffeine, and stress

Additionally, addressing underlying medical conditions can also be effective for sleepwalking cure

It is important to treat sleepwalking for several reasons:

1.It can be dangerous and can lead to injuries, both for:

– the person who sleepwalks;

– and others in the same environment.

2. It can significantly disrupt an individual’s quality of life. Since it can cause feelings of embarrassment, shame, and anxiety. 

3. Untreated conditions can lead to chronic sleep deprivation. It can have negative impacts on an individual’s physical and mental health.

It is important to work closely with a medical professional. They will determine the most appropriate treatment plan for each individual. Treatment depends on the severity and underlying causes of this condition. 

Let’s consider these sleepwalking treatment and cure methods in more detail:

1. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

CBT is a type of talk therapy that can effectively manage this ailment. CBT helps individuals:

  • Identify;
  • And change negative thought patterns and behaviors contributing to sleepwalking. 

2. Relaxation techniques

Relaxation techniques can be an efficient way of cure for sleepwalking. They involve:

  • Progressive muscle relaxation;
  • Deep breathing exercises;
  • And guided imagery. 

These techniques reduce stress and anxiety, promote relaxation, and improve sleep quality.

3. Scheduled awakenings

Scheduled awakenings involve waking an individual up at certain intervals during the night. It is necessary to interrupt the sleep cycle and prevent sleepwalking episodes. This technique can be effective in reducing:

  • Frequency;
  • And the severity of this disturbance.

4. Safety measures 

These measures can include:

  • Installing alarms or locks on windows and doors;
  • Removing sharp or dangerous objects from the sleepwalking individual’s environment;
  • And keeping the bedroom free of clutter and tripping hazards.

5. Treatment of underlying medical conditions 

Underlying medical conditions such as sleep apnea or restless leg syndrome can contribute to this illness. Treating these conditions can help sleepwalking attacks. This can involve:

  • Continuous positive airway pressure machine for sleep apnea;
  • And medication or lifestyle changes for restless leg syndrome.

6. Sleep hygiene practices 

These hygiene practices can be an effective method of cure for sleepwalking. They include:

  • Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule;
  • Creating a calming bedtime routine;
  • And avoiding stimulating activities before bed.

7. Avoiding triggers 

Certain triggers, such as alcohol, caffeine, and stress, can increase the likelihood of this condition. Avoiding these triggers can be effective in managing sleepwalking episodes.

Is There Medication To Stop Sleepwalking?

Yes, there are medications reducing the occurrence and severity of sleepwalking. A doctor prescribes these medications which can include:

  • Benzodiazepines, such as clonazepam or diazepam;
  • Antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs);
  • Or tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs).

But you should take these medicines just on the advice of your doctor.

Benzodiazepines sleepwalking medications are often used to treat sleepwalking because they help:

  • Reduce anxiety;
  • And promote relaxation. 

These medications can effectively reduce the frequency and intensity of sleepwalking episodes. But they can also have side effects such as:

  • Drowsiness;
  • Confusion;
  • And memory impairment.

Antidepressant sleepwalking medication helps manage this disturbance. It is particularly if this ailment is associated with other mental health conditions such as:

  • Depression;
  • Or anxiety. 

These medications help:

  • Regulate brain chemistry;
  • And improve sleep quality.

It is important to note that medication is helpful in conjunction with:

  • Other behavioral;
  • And lifestyle modifications.

Since medication alone can not be sufficient to manage this condition fully. Additionally, it is essential to work closely with a doctor. They will:

  • Prescribe the most appropriate medication and dosage for each individual;
  • As well as monitor for any potential side effects or complications.

prevent sleepwalking

How To Prevent Sleepwalking?

Preventing sleepwalking involves:

  • Reducing stress;
  • Promoting healthy sleep habits;
  • And addressing any underlying medical conditions.

Let’s consider these preventive measures in more detail. Some of these methods are similar to treatment options. But they are complementary:

1.Reducing stress. Engage in stress-reducing activities such as:

– yoga;

– meditation;

– or deep breathing exercises to help promote relaxation.

2. Establishing a regular sleep schedule. Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day. It helps regulate the body’s sleep-wake cycle and prevent sleepwalking.

3. Creating a relaxing sleep environment. Keep the bedroom cool, dark, and quiet. This promotes relaxation and reduces the risk of disruptions to sleep.

4. Practicing good sleep hygiene. Avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed. Avoid screen time before bed.

5. Addressing underlying medical conditions. Treat some medical conditions. It can be:

– sleep apnea;

restless leg syndrome;

– or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

6. Seeking treatment. Seeking sleepwalking treatment from a medical professional can be helpful if it is persistent or causes significant distress or safety concerns.  

With proper management and treatment, many people can:

  • Successfully manage their sleepwalking;
  • And reduce the risk of injury or other complications.

How Can Lone Star Neurology Doctors Help You?

Lone Star Neurology doctors can help with sleepwalking treatment. Neurologists are medical doctors specializing in:

  • The diagnosis and treatment of conditions that affect the brain and nervous system;
  • Including sleep disorders such as sleepwalking.

If you are experiencing sleepwalking episodes and are seeking treatment, you should consider scheduling an appointment with a neurologist. 

During your appointment, the neurologist will conduct a thorough evaluation to:

  • Determine the underlying cause of your condition;
  • And develop a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.

A neurologist can:

  • Provide expert guidance and support throughout the sleepwalking treatment process;
  • Help you achieve better quality sleep;
  • And increase your chances for a sleepwalking cure.

Schedule an appointment with Lone Star Neurology! And receive expert and personalized treatment options!

FAQ

  • How to protect yourself when sleepwalking?

To protect yourself when sleepwalking:

  • ensure that your sleeping environment is free from hazards;
  • consider installing alarms on doors and windows;
  • and avoid consuming alcohol or medications that can trigger sleepwalking episodes.
  • When should you see a doctor about sleepwalking?

If sleepwalking affects your quality of life, causing harm or injury, or is accompanied by other symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

  • Who is at risk for sleepwalking?

These can be:

  • children, those with a family history of sleepwalking;
  • and individuals who experience other sleep disorders or medical conditions.
  • What should someone do if they witness someone sleepwalking?

You should not startle the sleepwalker or attempt to wake them up. Instead, gently guide them back to bed. And ensure that their sleeping environment is safe and free from hazards. It’s important to stay with the sleepwalker until they have returned to a state of deep sleep.

  • Why is it dangerous to wake up sleepwalkers?

It can cause:

  • disorientation and confusion, leading to potential emotional distress or even violence;
  • them to fall or injure themselves as they can still be sleepwalking. It is best to consult a medical professional for advice on how to manage chronic sleepwalking.

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Edward Medina
Edward Medina
15:34 30 Jun 22
Just such an amazing staff that makes you feel like part of their family. I’ve been going there for over 5 years now... and each visit I get the very best care and treatments that I have ever received in the 20+ years that I’ve been dealing with severe debilitating migraines. Since i started seeing them the number of my migraines has dropped from 15-20 a month to 2-3 every 3 month. I highly recommend them …they will change your life!read more
Daneisha Johnson
Daneisha Johnson
22:20 19 May 22
Dr. Askari was very kind and explained everything so I could understand. The other staff were nice as well. I would... have gave 5 stars but I was a little taken aback when I checked in and had to pay 600.00 upfront. I think that should have been discussed in a appointment confirmation call or email just so I could have been prepared.read more
Jean Cooper
Jean Cooper
16:54 29 Apr 22
I love the office staff they are friendly and very helpful. Dr. JODIE is very caring and understanding to your needs... and wants to help you. I will go back. would recommend Dr. Dr. Jodie to other Patients in a heart beat. The team works well together.read more
Linda M
Linda M
19:40 02 Apr 22
I was obviously stressed, needing to see a neurologist. The staff was so patient and Dr. Ansari was so kind. At one... point he told me to relax, we have time, when I was relaying my history of my condition. That helped ease my stress. I have seen 3 other neurologists and he was the only one who performed any assessment tests on my cognitive and physical skills. At one point I couldn't complete two assessments and got upset and cried. I was told, it's OK. That's why you're here. I was truly impressed, and super pleased with the whole experience!read more
Leslie Durham
Leslie Durham
15:05 01 Apr 22
I've been coming here for about 5 years. The staff are ALWAYS friendly and knowledgeable. The Doctors are the absolute... best!! Jodie Moore is always in such a great mood which is a plus when you are already stressed. Highly recommendedread more
Monica Del Bosque
Monica Del Bosque
14:13 25 Mar 22
Since my first post my thoughts have changed here. It's unfortunate. My doctor and PA were great, but the office staff... is horrible. They never call you back when they say they will, they misinform you, they cause you too much stress wondering what's going on, they don't keep you posted. They never answer the phone. At this point I've left four messages in the last week, and I have sent three messages. Twice from their portal and one direct email. No response. My appointment is on Monday morning at 8:30am, no confirmation on my insurance and what's going on. What the heck is going on, this is ridiculous!I've given up... the stress her office staff has put me through is just not worth it. You can do so much better, please clean house, either change out your office staff, or find a way for them to be more efficient please. You have to do something. This is not how you want to run your practice. It leaves a very bad impression on your business.read more
Ron Buckholz
Ron Buckholz
23:32 23 Mar 22
I was actually pleasantly surprised with this visit! It took me a long time to get the appointment scheduled because no... one answers your phones EVER! After a month, I finally got in, and your staff was warm, friendly, and I was totally impressed! I feel like you will take care of my needs!read more
Steve Nabavi
Steve Nabavi
16:28 16 Mar 22
It was a nice visit. Happy staff doing all they can do to comfort the patients in a very calming environment. You ask... me they are earned a big gold star on the fridge. My only complaint they didn't give me any cookies.read more
Katie Lewis
Katie Lewis
16:10 10 Feb 22
Had very positive appointments with Jodie and Dr. Sheth for my migraine care. Jodie was so fast with the injections and... has so much valuable info. I started to feel light headed during checkout and the staff was SO helpful—giving me a chair, water, and taking me into a private room until I felt better. Highly recommend this practice for migraine patients, they know what they’re doing!!read more
Joshua Martinez
Joshua Martinez
16:02 10 Dec 21
I was scheduled to be checked and just want to say that the staff was fantastic. They were kind and helpful. I was... asked many questions related to what was going on and not once did I feel as though I was being brushed off. The front desk staff was especially great in assisting me. I'm scheduled to go back for a mri and am glad that I'll be going there.read more
Isabel Ivy
Isabel Ivy
21:42 03 Nov 21
I had such a good experience with Lone Star Neurology, Brent my MRI Tech was so awesome and made sure I was very... comfortable during the appointment. He gave me ear plugs, a pillow, leg support and blanket, easiest MRI ever lol 🤣 My 72 hour EEG nurse Amanda was also so awesome. She made sure I was take care of over the 3 days and took her time with the electrodes to make sure it was comfortable for me! Paige was also a huge help in answering all my questions when it came to my test results, and letting me know her honest opinions about how I should go forth with my treatment.read more
Leslie Luce
Leslie Luce
17:37 20 Oct 21
The professionalism and want to help attitude of this office was present from the moment I contacted them. The follow... up and follow through as well as their willingness to find a way to schedule my dad was above and beyond. We visited two offices in the same day with the same experience. I am appreciative of this—we spend a lot of time with doctors and this was top notch start to finish.read more
robert Parker
robert Parker
16:38 16 Apr 21
I love going to this office. The staff is friendly and helpful. The doctor is great. I am getting the best... neurological tests and treatment I have ever had. The only reason I did not give them a 5 star rating is because it is impossible to reach a live person at the office to reschedule appointments. Every time I have tried to get through to the office it says all people are busy and I am sent to a voicemail. If they could get their phone answering fixed, I would give them a strong 5 stars.read more
MaryAnn Hornbaker
MaryAnn Hornbaker
00:26 25 Feb 21
Dr. Harney is an excellent Dr. I found him friendly , personable and thorough. I evidently am an unusual case. ... Therefore he spent a Hugh amount of time educating me. He even gave me literature to further explain my condition and how to follow up. This is something you rarely get from your doctors. So I am more than please with my doctor and his staff.read more
Roger Arguello
Roger Arguello
03:05 29 Jan 21
Always courteous, professional. The staff is very friendly and always work with you to find the best appointment time.... The care team has been great. Always taking the time to listen to your concerns and to find the best treatment.read more
Margaret Rowland
Margaret Rowland
01:12 27 Jan 21
I have been a patient at Lone Star Neurology for several years. Now both my adult daughters also are patients there. I... love Jodie. She is always so prompt whether it is a teleamed call are a visit in the office. She takes the time to explain everything to me and answers all my questions. I am so blessed to have Jodie as my doctor.read more
Susan Miller
Susan Miller
03:01 13 Jan 21
My husband had an accident 5 years ago and Lone Star Neurology has been such a blessing to us with my husbands care.... Jodie Moore is his provider and she is amazing! Jodie is very knowledgeable, caring, and thorough. She takes her time with you, making sure your needs are met and she is happy to answer any questions you may have. Lone Star Neurology’s patients are very lucky to have Jodie providing their care. Thank you Lone Star Neurology and especially Jodie for everything you have done for us. Jodie, you are the best!read more
Windalyn C
Windalyn C
01:32 09 Jan 21
Jodie is wonderful. She is very caring and knowledgeable. I have been to over a dozen neurologists, and none were able... to help me as much as they have here. Thanks!read more
Katie Kordel
Katie Kordel
00:40 09 Jan 21
Jodi Moore, nurse practitioner, is amazing. I have suffered from frequent, debilitating headaches for almost 20 years.... She has provided the best proactive and responsive care I have ever received. My quality of life has been greatly improved by her caring approach and tenacity in finding solutions.read more
Ellie Natsis
Ellie Natsis
15:41 07 Jan 21
I have had the best experience at this neurologist's office! For over a year I have been receiving iv treatments here... each month and my nurse, Bobbie is beyond wonderful!! She's so attentive, knowledgeable, caring, and detail oriented. She makes an otherwise uncomfortable experience much more pleasant and definitely puts me at ease! She also helps me with my insurance,ordering this specialty medication and dealing with the ordering process which is no easy feat.Needless to say, she goes above a beyond in every way and I'm so grateful to this office and to Bobbie for all they do for me!read more
Matt Morris
Matt Morris
15:39 07 Jan 21
Let me start by saying that I have been coming here for years. Due to my autoimmune disease, I am in this office... once every three weeks for multiple hours at a time. The office is very clean and the staff very friendly. My only complaint would be there communication via phone. They aren't the best at responding if you leave a voicemail and expect a call back. I understand that this is prob just due to the sheer number of alls they receive daily. What I can say I like the best about the office are the people. Bobby who handles my infusions is great. I never have any issues with her setting up my infusions. She is very quick to reply to messages sent via text and if she were to leave then my whole opinion of the office may change. I also enjoy people like Matt, Lauren, and Jodi. I appreciate all that they do for me and without this team I'm not sure I would be as happy as I am to visit the office as frequently as I have to. Please ensure that these folks are recognized as they are what makes my visit to this office so tolerable :).read more
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