How Can I Control Sleep Talking?

Talking during slumber without being aware of it is very common and is not considered a serious condition. For some people, it is just a series of mumbling, while for others it is in the form of complicated dialogues. It is commonly noted in small children and in males. In most cases, the individual may not remember it the following day. The talk usually occurs for a short duration – for half a minute or little longer. Some people may talk multiple times over the course of one night. In some cases, it is very difficult to decipher what they are talking about.

Since the individual does not remember anything about talking during the night, they will come to learn it occurred only when other people point it out. The actual cause for talking during sleep is unknown. Although it is not very serious, in some cases, it might indicate a more serious underlying sleep disorder. People who have REM sleep behavior disorder sometimes shout in the middle of the night. They often act violently and yell in between their dreams. Children who have sleep terrors often scream during their sleep. Sleep talking is also associated with nocturnal sleep-related eating disorder.

Sleep talking is normally associated with:

• Emotional stress
• Certain medications
• Obstructive sleep apnea
• Alcohol and drug abuse
• High fever
• Sleep walking
• Psychiatric disorders

If your sleep talking includes yelling, screaming, or any other violent actions, it is better to consult with a doctor. The same is true if your sleep talking begins in adulthood. Sleep talking generally does not require any special treatments. If it is caused by any other underlying disorder, treating the disorder will help to manage sleep talking.

Getting adequate rest and sleep will help to reduce the chances of talking during sleep. Try to avoid stress as much as possible. If sleep talking affects you, it would be of help to keep a diary of sleep patterns. This will help in identifying the underlying sleep issues, if any. Mention medications and food consumed before going to sleep in your sleep journal. Moreover, discuss the amount of time you sleep, and the types of fluids consumed during the day, like caffeinated beverages or alcohol.