Definition of Somnambulism
Somnambulism: Sleepwalking. Purposeful moving,
usually but not always including walking, while in a deep
stage of sleep. Sleepwalking occurs most frequently in
children, particularly boys. Sedatives tend to exacerbate
rather than cure sleepwalking. The best measures are
preventative: ensure that the sleepwalker is in a safe room
for walking, and cannot accidentally fall through an open
window or down stairs. Some types of sleepwalking are
related to seizure disorders, bipolar disorders, or other
neurological conditions, but most cases are transitory and
due to unknown causes.
Last Editorial Review: 11/16/1999 8:36:00 PM
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