unissakävelyä

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 in the first third of the night.

Individuals who walk in their sleep may appear awake, with their eyes open, but they are not conscious and have no memory of their actions upon waking. The behaviors can range from simple movements like sitting up in bed to more complex activities such as dressing, navigating the house, or even leaving the home. While generally harmless, unissakävely can pose a risk of injury to the individual or others if they engage in dangerous activities.

The exact causes of unissakävely are not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to a partial arousal from deep sleep. Factors that can trigger or worsen episodes include sleep deprivation, stress, fever, certain medications, and a family history of the disorder. It is more common in children than adults, and most children outgrow it by adolescence.

Diagnosis is usually based on a description of the episodes and sometimes by observing the behavior. Treatment is often unnecessary if episodes are infrequent and not dangerous. If episodes are frequent, disruptive, or pose a safety risk, medical intervention may be considered. This can include ensuring a safe sleep environment, addressing underlying sleep disorders, managing stress, and in some cases, medication.