A Brief Introduction to Sleepwalking

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Following along last week’s theme of sleep disorders, this week I want to talk about sleepwalking, also known as somnambulism. Even though somnambulism is mostly associated with children, readers should know that adults sleepwalk, too.

While researchers still aren’t sure exactly what causes somnambulism, a recent study points towards genetics as a possible culprit. The study, published in JAMA Pediatrics, found that children who had one parent with a history of sleepwalking were three times more likely to have the disorder. Even more revealing is that children whose parents both had a history of sleepwalking were seven times more likely to have the disorder.

But whatever the cause, there are things you should know about the disorder that can make living with it that much easier. Namely, you should know that it can be incredibly dangerous and/or embarrassing, depending on the situation.

For example, young children often wander outside during this state. Older children and adults may attempt to cook in their sleep. In rare cases, some adults even get into their cars and drive.

On the more embarrassing side of things, some sleepwalkers may expose themselves or act out sexual activities. It’s also quite common for those afflicted with the disorder to mistakenly use the bathroom in the wrong place (ex: urinating into a trashcan).

But readers should also know that despite urban legend, waking up a sleepwalker will not kill them. However, those who do attempt to wake a sleepwalker should exercise caution. Upon waking, many sleepwalkers are highly confused and may become violent.

That’s why those who have the condition should take proper precautions to protect themselves. For example, setting an alarm or bell on the door can help wake the sleepwalker should he/she wander outside. Additionally, keeping locks on all windows and doors is an absolute must. Lastly, it’s always a good idea to store any and all sharp/dangerous objects in a safe place.

As always, I’m no expert in this field and I encourage you to visit the National Sleep Foundation's website for more information. I personally find the disorder quite fascinating and I’d love to hear about your experiences with it!

5 Options for Getting Rid of Varicose/Spider Veins

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Although similar, varicose veins and spider veins are slightly different. Varicose veins are often considered the more unsightly of the two only because they bulge. Spider veins, on the other hand, are smooth to the touch. They are red, purple, or bluish veins that branch out almost like a tree. Neither one of them are particularly attractive, which is why I wanted to offer some solutions for getting rid of them. 

But before I go through my list of treatment options, I wanted to talk a little bit about the cause of varicose/spider veins. Lack of blood circulation is mostly to blame. Malfunctioning valves cause blood to flow backwards into the vein, which results in vein enlargement and discoloration. Fortunately, there are solutions available.

1. Exercise

If you catch it early enough, you may be able to prevent these veins from forming by getting plenty of exercise. Cardio in particular helps improve blood flow circulation, which can help alleviate some of the aches and cramps that are associated with malfunctioning valves.

2. Sclerotherapy

This is only an option for spider veins and small varicose veins. The procedure involves injecting a small amount of sclerosing solution into the vein. This causes the lining of the vein to seal shut, which eradicates the vein.

3. Ambulatory Phlebectomy

The best part about ambulatory phlebectomy is that it is minimally invasive and doesn’t require any stitches. Doctors put patients undergo local anesthesia and remove the veins through tiny slit-like incisions.  

4. Endovenous laser treatment 

This is by far the quickest of all the treatment options as it can be performed in less than an hour. A laser is used to close the vein entirely. Don’t worry, this doesn't pose any health risks. Blood is simply rerouted through other, healthier veins. 

5. Compression therapy

In addition to exercise, using a pump or getting massages can help stimulate blood flow in the affected area. Although it is one of the cheaper solutions, it’s not the most effective.

I hope this helps any of you out there who are struggling with this issue. 

Trust me, I feel your pain! I have some spider veins forming in my legs. I’m writing this post because I’m looking into treatment options myself!