Causes of Screaming and Crying During a Child’s Nighttime Somnambulism

Question

What are the reasons for a child’s screaming and crying during nighttime somnambulism?

Answer

Somnambulism is an odd phenomenon where individuals get up and walk around in their sleep before returning to bed to continue sleeping. In neurology, it is considered a sleep disorder, typically characterized by walking around in a semi-conscious state within the home, with some patients potentially leaving the residence or engaging in dangerous activities. Treatment for somnambulism should involve both psychological therapy and medication. It is important to eliminate negative psychological factors, such as anxiety, fear, and tension, improve the environment, and ensure the patient maintains a balance between work and rest as well as engages in physical exercise. Additionally, appropriate doses of tranquilizing sedatives, such as Valium, Nytol, and Librium, may be administered based on the patient’s age. Reports indicate that taking imipramine orally before bedtime under medical guidance can also be effective. Waking the patient promptly at the onset of somnambulism is also a measure that can be effective.