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Sleepwalking Symptoms

Sleepwalking Symptoms

  • Episodes range from quiet walking about the room to agitated running or attempts to "escape."

  • Typically, the eyes are open with a glassy, staring appearance as the person quietly roams the house.

  • On questioning, responses are slow or absent. If the person is returned to bed without awakening, the person usually does not remember the event.

  • Older children, who may awaken more easily at the end of an episode, often are embarrassed by the behavior (especially if it was inappropriate).

  • Sleepwalking is not associated with previous sleep problems, sleeping alone in a room or with others, achluophobia (fear of the dark), or anger outbursts.

  • Some studies suggest that children who sleepwalk may have been more restless sleepers when aged 4-5 years, and more restless with more frequent awakenings during the first year of life.

WebMD Medical Reference from eMedicineHealth

Reviewed by Leonard J. Sonne, MD on January 01, 2007
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