Unissakävely

Unissakävely, also known as somnambulism, is a sleep disorder characterized by walking or performing other complex behaviors while asleep. It is a type of parasomnia, which refers to abnormal behaviors that occur during sleep. Unissakävely typically occurs during the deep, non-REM stages of sleep, usually within the first few hours after falling asleep.

Individuals who walk in their sleep may appear awake but are not fully conscious. They may have their eyes open and can navigate their surroundings, but their awareness is significantly reduced. They may perform actions such as dressing, eating, or even leaving the house. During an episode, the person is generally unresponsive and difficult to wake. If woken, they may be disoriented and have no memory of the event.

The exact causes of unissakävely are not fully understood, but several factors are believed to contribute, including genetics, sleep deprivation, stress, fever, and certain medications. It is more common in children but can also occur in adults. While generally not harmful, unissakävely can pose risks due to the potential for injury or accidents. In most cases, the behavior resolves on its own as the person matures. Management strategies focus on ensuring safety, such as securing windows and doors, and addressing underlying causes like sleep deprivation or stress.