Sleepwalking or somnambulism is a fairly common phenomenon in medicine. Very often this condition occurs in children of six to twelve years. Boys are most susceptible to this disease. As a rule, over time, sleepwalking in a child goes away on its own. The main causes of somnambulism are anxiety, anxiety, stress.
Sleepwalking in a child. What's going on?
Despite the fact that the baby's nervous system and brain are asleep, his body can move. In a "sleeping" state, a sleepwalking child is able to get out of bed and wander around the apartment. At the same time, his eyes are open, but, since the brain is in a sleeping state, the baby cannot respond or answer questions from his parents. As a rule, the period of "wakefulness" is fifteen minutes. However, for some babies, this time can be significantly increased.
Sleepwalking in children. Symptoms
A number of signs may indicate the presence of somnambulism in a child. Firstly, if the baby sits on the bed or walks during sleep. Secondly, if he naps with his eyes open. Another sign is talking during sleep, sounds, phrases, etc.
Sleepwalking in children. Reasons
Somnambulism manifests itself against the background of strong emotional experiences, anxiety, fatigue, insomnia, during periods of active maturation. Each child has this phenomenon for different reasons. An important role is given to hereditary predisposition. Experts believe that the most common cause is the uneven process of maturation of a young organism. Some departments develop much faster than others, causing an imbalance of various anatomical systems. Often, sleepwalking in a child occurs during puberty. After all, it is during this period that the nervous system is rapidly developing. Another significant reason is stress. A variety of factors can cause it: restless sleep, noisy behavior of others, causing frequent awakening of the baby, trouble at school, a fight on the street, a scary movie, etc.
Combat sleepwalking
First of all, it should be determined whether sleepwalking in a child is a consequence of stressful situations or is it a neurotic phenomenon. Pay attention to the phrases, words that your baby utters in a dream, and make every effort to eliminate the factors that disturb and traumatize his psyche. If during the "travel" the child twitches, rubs his hands, smacks his lips, makes sudden movements, you should show him to a neuropsychiatrist. Since these signs may indicate serious diseases. In any case, if your baby has somnambulism, try to ensure your child has a he althy sleep. Preschoolers just need a daily “quiet hour”. Protect the baby from any stress, as the psyche of children is very unstable. Before going to bed, limit your child to watching TV, moving and active games. To ensure that nightly “walks” do not end in tragedy, close windows and doors well, remove breaking and sharp objects away. In no case do not wake the baby while walking. Slowly and quietly bring him to the crib and put him to bed. Do not give your child strong tea or coffee after dinner. Prepare a soothing pine-s alt bath for your baby, close the curtains tightly so that street lights do not disturb sleep, and turn off the nightlights in the room. In general, create a favorable, calm microclimate.
