Sleepwalking, also known as somnambulism, is a sleep disorder characterized by complex behaviors that occur during deep sleep, usually during the non-rapid eye movement (NREM) stages. These behaviors can range from simple actions like sitting up in bed to more complex activities like walking around the room or even leaving the house.

During sleepwalking episodes, individuals typically appear to be partially awake but are actually in a state of deep sleep. They may perform activities as if they were awake, but they are not fully aware of their actions and may not respond to attempts to communicate with them.

Sleepwalking episodes can vary in duration and frequency. They may last anywhere from a few seconds to several minutes or longer, and they may occur sporadically or regularly. Sleepwalking tends to occur most often during the first third of the night when deep sleep is most prevalent.

The exact cause of sleepwalking is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Certain triggers, such as sleep deprivation, fever, stress, and certain medications, may increase the likelihood of sleepwalking episodes.

While sleepwalking itself may not be harmful, it can pose risks, especially if the individual engages in potentially dangerous activities while sleepwalking, such as walking outdoors or using stairs. Therefore, it’s important for individuals who experience sleepwalking or have concerns about their sleep behaviors to consult with a healthcare professional for evaluation and appropriate management.

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Office Locations

Conveniently located near you in Loudoun and Fairfax VA

NOVA Pulmonary – Dulles
24430 Stone Springs Boulevard
Suite 550
Dulles, VA 20166

NOVA Pulmonary – Lansdowne
19415 Deerfield Avenue
Suite 301
Landsdowne, VA 20176

NOVA Pulmonary – Vienna
124 Park Street SE
Suite 203
Vienna, VA 22180

NOVA Pulmonary Critical Care and Sleep Associates is committed to providing excellent care in all aspects of Pulmonary Medicine and Sleep Disorders. With offices located in Lansdowne and Dulles/South Riding, we offer care for the entire Northern Virginia region, serving locations from Chantilly, Fairfax, Centreville, Manassas, Gainesville to Reston, Sterling, Leesburg, Ashburn, Brambleton, Purcellville and more.

Meet the team at NOVA Pulmonary Critical Care and Sleep Associates

Dr. Aditya Dubey

Dr. Aditya N Dubey, M.D, F.C.C.P. – FounderBoard Certified Internal Medicine

Specialty:
Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine
Board Certified by American Board of Internal Medicine in the Subspecialities of Pulmonary Medicine, Critical Care Medicine and Sleep Medicine.  Learn more about Dr. Dubey

Dr. Petra Thomas

Dr. Petra Thomas, M.D.

Specialty:
Pulmonary Medicine
Board Certified by American Board of Internal Medicine in the Subspecialities of Pulmonary Medicine. Learn more about Dr. Thomas

Dr. Arman Murabia

Dr. Arman Murabia, M.D.

Specialty:
Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine
Board Certified by American Board of Internal Medicine in the Subspecialities of Pulmonary Medicine, Critical Care Medicine and Sleep Medicine. Learn more about Dr. Murabia

Paulos Abebe PA-C

Paulos Abebe PA-C

Physician Assistant Learn more about Paulos Abebe PA-C

Rebekah B. Lee, AGNP-C

Rebekah Lee, AGNP-C

Nurse Practitioner.  Learn more about Rebekah Lee

Christine Amorosi, AGNP-C

Christine Amorosi, AGNP-C

Nurse Practitioner.  Learn more about Christine Amorosie