Patient's question:
Age of onset of symptoms: Five episodes of sleepwalking have occurred since this year.History of treatment and effectiveness: No treatment has been sought.
What kind of help is desired: Will it affect the child's development?
Doctor's answer:
Sleepwalking, commonly known as "night terrors," refers to sudden movements or activities during sleep, followed by returning to sleep, with no memory of the activities upon waking. Nightwalking does not occur during dreams but during the deep sleep stages of the 3rd-4th phase, primarily concentrated in the first half of the night. Therefore, nightwalking typically occurs within the first 2-3 hours after falling asleep. Sleepwalking is most common in childhood (6-12 years old) and can occur at any age, but is most frequent between 5-7 years old. It often persists for several years and usually resolves on its own during puberty. In childhood, the prevalence of sleepwalking is approximately 15%, with frequent occurrences ranging from 1% to 6%. It is more common in males than females. High incidence rates of sleepwalking within the same family suggest a genetic predisposition. Night terror episodes typically occur within the first half-hour after falling asleep and rarely extend beyond 2 hours. Additionally, maintaining a well-structured schedule, fostering good sleep habits, and ensuring a regular daily routine can help. Avoiding excessive fatigue and high levels of stress, prioritizing early sleep and wake times, and engaging in physical exercise can optimize sleep patterns.