How to Prevent Sleepwalking

Engaging in activities while sleeping is referred to as somnambulism or sleepwalking, which affect individuals of all ages. Sleepwalking commonly occurs during deep rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. The sleepwalker may get up and walk around or perform activities, such as dressing or driving a car. The condition does not pose a health risk, but the activities may cause injury, since the individual is unaware. To avoid injury while sleepwalking, prevention is essential.

Instructions

• 1

  Make sleeping a priority since sleep deprivation leads to sleepwalking episodes. Set a regular bedtime schedule that allows for eight hours of sleep. Create a comfortable sleep environment. Sleep in a quiet, cool, dark room on a comfortable mattress and pillow. Avoid stress before going to sleep by reading a book or taking a relaxing bath.

• 2

  Consult a physician regarding current prescribed medications, such as sedatives, anti-psychosis drugs and antihistamines, as they can trigger sleepwalking episodes. To prevent the episodes, the physician may discontinue medications or prescribe an alternative.

• 3

  Treat underlying medical conditions, such as sleep apnea, restless legs syndrome and gastroesophageal reflux, to prevent sleepwalking episodes.

• 4

  Take prescribed sleepwalking medication, such as short-acting tranquilizers, to prevent injury, anxiety, and excessive fatigue and tiredness.

• 5

  Record the beginning and ending time when sleepwalking episodes occur. A family member or friend can track this. If a pattern forms, awaken the sleepwalker 20 minutes before the usual time an episode begins and keep them awake until the duration of the episode.

• 6

  Practice mental imagery and relaxation techniques with the help of a certified behavioral therapist or hypnotist. Discuss sleepwalking issues with a sleep disorder specialist. Specialists work in clinics where they monitor sleep behavior and recommend treatment. They monitor the behavior with a polysomnography machine, which studies a patient's sleep patterns.

• 7

  Protect a sleepwalker from injury by taking safety measures, such as hanging a bell on the bedroom door, locking all windows, and removing sharp objects and obstructions, such as furniture or toys. Sleep on the bottom floor of the home or place a gate in front of the staircase, if the individual sleeps upstairs.