Introduction
In everyday speech, the phrase sleepwalking can be used both casually and symbolically to describe a lack of energy or focus.
However, for some infants and adults, sleepwalking is a real condition with serious repercussions. So, in this article, we’ll look at whether sleepwalking occurs during REM sleep.
Does Sleepwalking Occur During REM Sleep?
Sleepwalking is a sleep disorder that occurs when a person gets up and walks around while they are asleep. It usually happens during the slow-wave sleep stage, which is the deepest stage of sleep.
Sleepwalking can also occur during REM sleep (rapid eye movement sleep), but this is less common.
Research that was published in the issue that came out on Tuesday made an unexpected discovery regarding the nightly routines of Americans: we like to stroll.
According to the findings of the first-ever large-scale assessment of sleepwalking behaviors in American adults, an estimated 3.6 percent of us, which translates to more than 8.4 million people, have had an episode of nocturnal wandering in the preceding year. (Source: Neurology)
REM sleep is a type of sleep that is characterized by rapid eye movements, increased brain activity, and increased dreaming. It is the deepest and most restful type of deep sleep and is important for overall health and well-being.
Sleepwalking and REM sleep have long been linked together, but scientists have only recently begun to understand the connection between the two.
Sleepwalking, or somnambulism is a sleep deprivation characterized by walking or performing other complex behaviors while asleep. It typically occurs during the deep sleep stage, when people are less likely to be aroused from sleep.
REM sleep behavior disorder, on the other hand, is a sleep state characterized by rapid eye movement and increased brain activity. It is the stage of sleep when most dreams occur.
Scientists believe that the link between sleepwalking and REM sleep is that both states are associated with a lack of muscle paralysis.
During REM sleep, the brain is active but the body is paralyzed. This paralysis may be incomplete in people with the sleepwalking disorder, which could explain why they are able to walk or perform other complex behaviors while asleep.
More research is needed to confirm this theory and to better understand the link between sleepwalking and REM sleep. In the meantime, if you or someone you know sleepwalks, it is important to talk to a doctor about the best way to manage the condition.
Why Sleepwalking Occurs During Rem Sleep?
There are several theories as to why sleepwalking occurs, but the most likely explanation is that it is a result of the disconnection between the different parts of the brain during REM sleep.
The REM sleep state is characterized by rapid eye movement, increased brain activity, and increased muscle tone.
This increased muscle tone is what allows us to move around during our dreams. However, this increased muscle tone can also lead to the body acting out the dream, which is what we experience as sleepwalking.
There are a few things that can increase the likelihood of sleepwalking, including sleep deprivation, stress, anxiety, sleep disorders, and certain medications.
Sleepwalking is more common in children than adults, but it can happen to anyone at any age. If you think you might be sleepwalking, it’s important to talk to a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
What Are The Consequences Of Sleepwalking?
There are a number of consequences that can occur as a result of sleepwalking. These can include physical injuries, as well as emotional and mental health problems.
Physical Injuries
There is the most common type of consequence that can occur from sleepwalking This is because sleepwalkers are often not aware of their surroundings and can walk into things or fall down. Sleepwalkers can also injure themselves by walking into dangerous areas, such as busy roads.
Emotional And Mental Health Problems
This can also occur as a result of sleepwalking. This is because sleepwalking can be a symptom of underlying mental health conditions, such as anxiety or depression.
Sleepwalking can also cause stress and anxiety in people who do not have any underlying mental health conditions.
4 Ways To Prevent Sleepwalking Episodes During REM Sleep
There are a few things you can do to prevent sleepwalking episodes during REM sleep:
1. Establish A Sleep Schedule
This will help to regulate your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle and minimize the chances of sleep disruption.
A regular sleep schedule is important for maintaining your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. This can help to minimize the chances of sleep disruption and improve your overall sleep quality.
2. Avoid drinking alcohol before bed.
Alcohol can interfere with sleep and increase the likelihood of sleepwalking episodes. If you drink alcohol, be sure to do so in moderation and avoid drinking close to bedtime. If you think you may have a problem with sleepwalking, talk to your doctor.
3. Avoid caffeine before bed.
Caffeine is a stimulant, and as such, it can have a number of effects on your body. In addition to keeping you awake, it can also increase your heart rate and blood pressure.
Caffeine can also interfere with sleep and increase the likelihood of sleepwalking episodes. If you’re someone who is prone to sleepwalking, it’s best to avoid caffeine altogether.
4. Practice relaxation techniques
There are a few things you can do to help you wind down before bedtime. Try reading a book or taking a bath. You might also want to avoid watching television or working on the computer in the hours leading up to sleep. This can help to calm your mind and body and prepare you for sleep.
When To Contact A Medical Professional If You Have Sleepwalking during rem sleep?
If you have sleepwalking during rem sleep, you should contact a medical professional and sleep medicine if you have any of the following symptoms:
- Experience any sort of sleep paralysis.
- Have any sort of hallucinations?
- Feel like you are losing control of your body.
Conclusion
If it is at all possible, you should try to gently steer a person who is sleepwalking away from any potential hazards and back to their bed.
When directing them, it may be helpful to use a soft voice that is calming and to touch them only lightly. And the most important thing is that you should give your attention to the wellness of your sleep.
