What Could Cause A Teenager To Suddenly Start Sleepwalking?

Posted on Sat, 16 Aug 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 16 Aug 2014 Answered on

Tue, 2 Sep 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : My teenager has never sleepwalked before but did so last night and mistook a running fan for a urinal! Is this a cause for concern (leaving for college)?

Answered by Dr. Jonas Sundarakumar (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Needn't worry...

Detailed Answer:
Hello and thanks for your query.

Just one episode of sleepwalking is not a serious issue. So, you needn't worry about this.

Sleepwalking can often be precipitated by irregular or poor sleep, fatigue, stress, etc. So, I would suggest that he follows regular sleep habits such as a strict timing for going to sleep and waking up. Avoiding alcohol, smoking drugs, coffee, tea and caffeinated drinks can be helpful. Reducing stress and practicing simple relaxation techniques like deep breathing, yoga, etc. can be helpful in having smooth and undisturbed sleep.

Regards,
Dr. Jonas Sundarakumar MBBS., DPM., MRCPsych.(U.K.)
Consultant Psychiatrist

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar