Parkinson’s and Deep Sleep: Exploring the REM Behavior Disorder

In the silence of the night, a perplexing event arises within the brain. This is where Parkinson’s disease and REM Behavior Disorder meet and become intertwined. Sleep, which is a refuge for many, can become a period of torment for those who are suffering from Parkinson’s. We’ll delve into the deep connections between Parkinson’s and sleep and explore REM behavior disorder–a condition that involves distressing actions while dreaming. In this blog post, you’ll learn more about the potential causes of REM behavior disorder, the symptoms, and the complications that can arise.

Parkinson’s and Sleep

Parkinson’s and sleep have a tight bond. It’s no surprise that people with this disease often struggle with sleep due to changes in the brain. Even more so, Parkinson’s can even lead to other sleep disorders like REM sleep disorder. Research suggests that sleep-related symptoms could be early signs of Parkinson’s. Sleep issues are not rare among those with Parkinson’s, and in fact, an estimated two out of three individuals with Parkinson’s have faced challenges in getting a good night’s rest.

What Is REM Behavior Disorder?

Around the age of 50, REM behavior disorder may emerge. This parasomnia is closely associated with neurodegenerative disorders like Parkinson’s, causing you to act out your dreams during the REM sleep stage. The enactment often includes punches, kicks, and hand gestures. This intrusive sleep disorder disrupts much-needed rest with unwelcome and unusual experiences.

With the typical REM sleep, the body goes through a temporary paralysis of the muscles which allows you to dream safely. When it comes to REM behavior disorder, temporary paralysis does not happen.

Symptoms of REM Behavior Disorder

Approximately 8 in 10 individuals with RBD have suffered from sleep-related harm. The symptoms of RBD vary in intensity with incidents occurring once per sleep period or even multiple times. The following are the symptoms of RBD while asleep.

• Frequently using profanity while shouting, talking, or screaming
• Fall or jump out of the bed
• Experience light muscle twitches or movement of the limbs
• Punch, kick, or grab the air (may even grab the person who is sharing the bed)

Causes of REM Behavior Disorder

Researchers and scientists are unclear about the exact causes of RBD. However, certain animal studies indicate that it’s linked to specific neural pathways in the brain. In a normal sleep pattern without RBD, neural pathways restrict muscle activity throughout REM sleep, and the interruption of the neutral pathways results in REM sleep without muscle paralysis. RBD often coincides with neurological issues such as Parkinson’s, stroke, and Lewy body dementia.

In one study, it was revealed that 38 percent of men over the age of 50 with RBD were ultimately diagnosed with Parkinson’s or another neurological condition within 13 years. Later on, that number jumped to almost 81 percent. Additionally, RBD can be caused by the use of antidepressants such as serotonin-specific reuptake inhibitors.

Diagnosing REM Behavior Disorder

The relationship between Parkinson’s and sleep can be complicated. If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of RBD, a visit to your healthcare provider is the best route. You will be asked a series of questions about those symptoms as well as your medical history. You’ll also undergo a neurological and physical exam as well as an in-lab video sleep study. The sleep study records certain body activities such as the following:

• Brain wave activity
• Rate of breathing
• Heart rate
• Airflow
• Muscle movements
• Eye movements

Dangers of REM Behavior Disorder

In the abyss of RBD lies substantial complications and dangers. This is a condition that can bring physical risks. Below, we’ll shed light on the complications associated with RBD.

Social isolation out of fear of being judged by others because of your sleep disturbances
Injuries brought on yourself or the person who shares the bed with you
Turmoil faced by your partner who others residing in your household

Due to the above complications, it’s crucial to pursue treatment as soon as possible and create a safe haven to sleep.

Takeaway

The relationship between Parkinson’s disease and REM Behavior Disorder is complex. Distressing and intrusive, it’s a consequential part of life for many who live with Parkinson’s.
What’s often considered a time to rest and rejuvenate for most, can also be a time of agony for others, especially during the REM stage. Since there are complications that come with RBD, it’s best to seek help from your healthcare provider.

If you’re interested in learning more about the comprehensive services offered by Senior Check-In, don’t hesitate to contact us at 855-420-1200.