What is a somnambulist?

Question: What is a somnambulist?

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A sleepwalker.

A somnambulist is a person who walks or performs other actions while asleep, a behavior more commonly referred to as sleepwalking. The term originates from the Latin words “somnus,” meaning sleep, and “ambulare,” meaning to walk.

Sleepwalking is classified as a parasomnia, an abnormal behavior that occurs during sleep. It typically happens during the deeper stages of sleep within the first third of the night. Episodes can last a few seconds to 30 minutes or longer and can involve a range of activities, from simply sitting up in bed to walking around the house or even leaving the building.

Sleepwalkers typically have no memory of their actions, and attempts to awaken them during an episode can cause them confusion or agitation. The cause of sleepwalking is not fully understood, but it is believed to be influenced by genetic, environmental, and physiological factors. Factors such as stress, sleep deprivation, and certain medications can trigger sleepwalking episodes.

While often harmless, sleepwalking can lead to potentially dangerous situations if the somnambulist leaves the safety of their home or navigates hazardous environments. Medical consultation may be needed if sleepwalking episodes persist, result in injury, or cause significant sleep disruption.