Though it is often harmless source of comedy in movies and television, the reality is that real sleepwalking can be a serious problem. Many results are different, but some studies have shown that up to 10% of adults and 17% of children suffer from this condition. If this affects you or a loved one, know that help is available.

In the majority of sleepwalking cases, it can be characterized as walking around during the night in dazed state. In addition to walking, some people go outside, eat, and interact with pets. Sometimes people do not even get out of bed; they talk without realizing what they are saying.

Isolated incidents of sleep walking are not too bad, if a little walking around the house is all that occurs. However, it may require treatment if it happens daily. The important issue is handling the situation in a way that keeps the sleepwalker safe. The following is a list of do’s and don’ts when dealing with a sleepwalker.

Do’s

• Make sure windows and doors are locked. I necessary, install child locks, as they will most likely be too much of a challenge to someone who is asleep.

• Set up restrictive gates. The most crucial location for these gates is staircases. Additionally, you could create a small area that the sleepwalker could not leave. Make sure you leave access to the bedroom and bathroom.

• Have the sleepwalker sleep on a bottom floor. This reduces the risk of falling down stairs or getting hurt from a fall out of a window.

• Make sure the floor is clear. Since sleepwalkers are at a greater risk of falling, clean up the floors and eliminate as many potential hazards as possible.

• Keep dangerous items in a safe place. This includes guns, knives, and sharp and breakable items. Make sure they are not accessible.

Don’ts

• Give a sleepwalker the top bunk. There is a great opportunity for the person to fall and possibly injure themselves.

• Wake the sleepwalker. Completely awakening them could lead to a great scare or panic. Gently talk to the person and lead them back to bed.

• Allow the sleepwalker to drink lots of liquids. Studies have linked full bladders to an increased likelihood of sleepwalking. Caffeine and other substances that can disrupt sleep should also be avoided.

If the sleepwalker is neither a danger to herself or others, the problem is not too major. However, if the person sleepwalks multiple times a month, a doctor visit may be appropriate. In most cases, following the tips above is a better option than medial treatment.