SOMNAMBULISM Meaning and
Definition
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Somnambulism is a term used to describe a sleep disorder characterized by episodes of walking or performing complex behaviors while in a state of deep sleep. Also known as sleepwalking, somnambulism typically occurs during the first few hours of sleep, when an individual is in a deep non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep stage.
During a somnambulistic episode, a person may sit up in bed, open their eyes, and begin to walk around or engage in activities as if they were awake, often with a blank or distant expression on their face. Sleepwalkers may perform routine daily activities such as getting dressed or eating, but they are usually moving clumsily and may exhibit a lack of coordination.
The cause of somnambulism is not entirely understood, but several factors may contribute to its occurrence. These factors can include sleep deprivation, fatigue, stress, alcohol consumption, or certain medications. Sleepwalking tends to affect children more frequently than adults, and it often runs in families.
While sleepwalking itself is generally harmless, it can pose potential risks or dangers to the individual, especially if they are in an unfamiliar environment. Sleepwalkers may accidentally injure themselves by stumbling or falling, or they may attempt to leave the house or engage in risky behaviors without any awareness or conscious control. Treatment for somnambulism typically involves improving sleep hygiene, reducing triggers, and ensuring a safe sleep environment to minimize the risks associated with sleepwalking.
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1. A sleep disorder in which a person walks, writes, or performs other complex acts automatically while in a condition of somnolence, having no recollection, on awaking, of what he has done. 2. A condition in which one's mental processes are conducted in a more or less unusual or odd way, and in which one seems confused and almost as if asleep.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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• Act of walking in sleep.
• The act or practice of walking in sleep.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for SOMNAMBULISM
Etymology of SOMNAMBULISM
The word somnambulism is derived from the Latin term somnus, meaning sleep, and the Latin verb ambulare, meaning to walk. So, the literal meaning of somnambulism is sleepwalking.
Similar spelling words for SOMNAMBULISM
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