Mikey North, 33, who’s played Gary Windass on ITV’s Coronation Street since 2008, revealed his sleepwalking nightmare while on daytime show Lorraine. The star said his condition was so bad, he once woke in the street with his duvet.
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Speaking to stand-in host Rochelle Humes, Mikey said: “I’m a really bad sleepwalker. Horrendous sleepwalker.
“I’ve been known to leave the house.
“I’ve been known to try and let myself in next door in my pants.
“I’ve woken up on the street with my duvet.
“So if you live on my street watch out. I’m coming for you next.”
Rochelle joked: “We’re apologising now if you live on his street. Goodness me.”
So how serious is sleepwalking?
Sleepwalking is recognised by the NHS, who describes it as when someone walks to carries out complex activities while not fully awake.
It adds: “Sleepwalking can start at any age but it more common in children.
“It’s thought one in five children will sleepwalk at least once. Most grow out of it by the time they reach puberty, but it can sometimes persist into adulthood.”
What causes sleepwalking
The exact cause is unknown, but sleepwalking can run in families.
The health body advises: “You’re more likely to sleepwalk if other member of your close family have or had sleepwalking behaviours or night terrors.”
The follow things can trigger sleepwalking or make it worse:
- Not getting enough sleep
- Stress and anxiety
- Infection with a fever, especially in children
- Drinking too much alcohol
- Taking recreational drugs
- Certain types of medication, such as some sedatives
- Being startled by a sudden noise or touch, causing abrupt waking from deep sleep
- Waking up suddenly from deep sleep because you need to go to the toilet
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In some extreme cases, like Mikey’s, a person may walk out of the house. Sometimes, they may carry out complex activities, such as driving a car.
What to do if someone is sleepwalking
The NHS advises: “The best thing to do if you see someone sleepwalking is to make sure they’re safe.
“Gently guide them back to bed by reassuring them. If undisturbed, they will often go back to sleep again.
“Sometimes, gently waking the person after they have fully come out of the episode, before settling them back to sleep, will prevent another episode occurring in the same deep-sleep cycle.
“Do not shout or startle the person and do not try to physically restrain them unless they’re in danger, as they may lash out.”
Occasional sleepwalking does not usually need medical attention and is rarely the sign of anything serious.
But if sleepwalking occurs frequently, you should consider seeing your GP as the person may be at risk of injuring themselves or others.
Adults who experience sleepwalking may also want to see their GP, who may then refer you to a specialist sleep centre.
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