Sleep Disorders: When Sleepwalking and Amnesia Occur - Psychiatry

More Info

---

Your experiences with sleepwalking, amnesia, and other unusual sleep behaviors raise important questions about your sleep health. Based on the information you've provided, it seems you may be experiencing a form of parasomnia, which is a disorder characterized by abnormal or unusual behavior during sleep. This can include sleepwalking, talking in your sleep, and even engaging in activities without being aware of them, as you've described.


Understanding Your Symptoms
1. Sleepwalking (Somnambulism): This is a common parasomnia where individuals walk or perform other complex behaviors while in a state of sleep. Sleepwalkers typically have no memory of their actions upon waking. Your experience of getting out of bed and moving to another location without recalling the event fits this description.

2. Sleep Talking (Somniloquy): This involves talking during sleep without being aware of it. It can range from simple sounds to full conversations. Your boyfriend's observations about you talking in your sleep and not being able to engage in meaningful dialogue with him are consistent with this condition.

3. Amnesia for Sleep Events: The lack of memory for actions taken during sleep, such as moving to another bed or making phone calls, is a hallmark of parasomnias. This amnesia can be distressing, especially if it leads to confusion or concern about your safety.

4. Deep Sleep and Insensitivity to External Stimuli: Your ability to sleep deeply, even in noisy environments, suggests that you may be experiencing a high level of sleep inertia, which is the grogginess and disorientation that can occur upon waking from deep sleep. This can make it difficult for you to respond to alarms or other stimuli.


When to Seek Medical Attention
Given the frequency and nature of your symptoms, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare professional, particularly a sleep specialist. Here are some reasons to seek medical advice:
- Frequency of Episodes: If sleepwalking or other parasomnias occur regularly, it may indicate an underlying sleep disorder that could benefit from evaluation and treatment.


- Safety Concerns: Engaging in activities while unaware can pose risks, especially if you are in unfamiliar environments or if there are potential hazards around you.

- Impact on Daily Life: If these episodes are affecting your quality of life, relationships, or daily functioning, it is important to address them.


Potential Evaluations
During your consultation, the healthcare provider may recommend:
- Sleep Study (Polysomnography): This overnight test records brain waves, oxygen levels, heart rate, and breathing, as well as eye and leg movements during sleep. It can help diagnose sleep disorders.

- Sleep Diary: Keeping a record of your sleep patterns, behaviors, and any episodes of sleepwalking or talking can provide valuable information for your doctor.

- Medical History Review: Discussing your medical history, lifestyle factors (like stress, caffeine intake, and sleep hygiene), and any medications you are taking can help identify potential triggers.


Conclusion
Your experiences with sleepwalking, amnesia, and other unusual sleep behaviors are significant and warrant further investigation. While these behaviors can sometimes be benign, they can also indicate underlying sleep disorders that may require treatment. Consulting with a sleep specialist will provide you with a clearer understanding of your condition and the best course of action to improve your sleep quality and overall well-being. Remember, prioritizing your sleep health is essential for your physical and mental well-being.