[Guest]

I am a 49 year old female who lives alone, (divorced with 4 grown sons.) I have been a sleep-walker since childhood and have sleep apnea and insomnia as well. I have battled a severe weight problem for many years and could never understand why none of my diets helped.
All the years that my children were home I assumed that the empty cereal bowls, cookie bags, orange peels etc that I found every day were theirs. Now that none of them live with me, I realize that I must be sleepwalking and eating. Not only is this defeating my diets but seems dangerous as I prepare cooked foods, slice things with sharp knives, etc.
One recent morning I found peanut butter, jelly, bologna, cheese, mustard, mayo and an empty bottle of soda on the kitchen table, an empty micro popcorn bag on the kitchen counter, crushed crackers all over my bedroom floor and in the bed, orange peels on my dresser, and an apple core in the bathroom sink. Other mornings I have found pans with the remains of a noodle mix or fried eggs.
Is there anything that will help ? My family doctor gave me Ambien but although I fall asleep quicker I am sleepwalking and waking throughout the night like always.
Any suggestions are welcome.

[Guest]

Sleep walking and eating or nocturnal eating behavior does exist and may be what you have. A sleep specialist or psychologist knowledgeable on this type of behavior would be an important part of your getting help. Sleep deprivation and psychological stress can make these conditions worse so getting a good night's sleep is an important component. Some patients do need medication if behavioral therapy doesn't work.
[quote] I am a 49 year old female who lives alone, (divorced with 4 grown sons. ) I have been a sleep-walker since childhood and have sleep apnea and insomnia as well... [/quote]