The exact reason you sleepwalk isn't fully understood, but it's likely a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
What We Know About Sleepwalking Causes
While a single definitive cause remains elusive, here's what research and experts suggest:
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Family History: Sleepwalking often runs in families. This means you are more likely to sleepwalk if close relatives also experience sleepwalking or night terrors. The reference confirms that, “The exact cause of sleepwalking is unknown, but it seems to run in families.”
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Sleep Deprivation: Lack of sufficient sleep can trigger sleepwalking or make it worse.
Factors That Can Trigger or Worsen Sleepwalking
| Trigger | Description |
|---|---|
| Sleep Deprivation | Not getting enough sleep |
| Family History | If other family members sleepwalk or had sleep terrors, you're more susceptible |
Practical Insights:
Here are a few practical insights that might help in understanding and managing sleepwalking:
- Maintain a Regular Sleep Schedule: Going to bed and waking up at the same time each day can help regulate your sleep patterns and reduce the likelihood of sleepwalking.
- Ensure Sufficient Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night.
- Relaxation Techniques: Incorporating relaxation techniques before bed can help improve sleep quality.
- Safe Environment: Make sure your sleeping area is safe by removing any hazards that could cause injury if you were to sleepwalk.
Why No Single Answer?
The complexity of sleepwalking lies in the fact that it's not a simple on/off switch. Several factors influence sleep, and their interplay likely leads to sleepwalking.
