REM Sleep Behavior Disorder

The muscle paralysis is temporary and occurs as a natural part of the sleeping process. Yet sometimes during REM sleep, the processes break down and the muscle paralysis does not work properly. This creates the parasomnia.

People with REM sleep disorder get out of bed and copy the movements and actions in their dreams. They have no idea they are moving around while dreaming. Usually a partner or someone in the home notices the problem. If dreams are violent, people can unintentionally hurt themselves or others.

Potential Causes

REM sleep behavior disorder is more common in men than in women. The onset of the condition typically starts in middle age or later, though it can occur earlier. The symptoms can mimic other parasomnias, including sleep talking and sleep walking.

The cause of this parasomnia is not fully understood. Research has shown that acting out dreams may be linked to neurological conditions such as Parkinson disease, multisystem atrophy, or dementia.

Diagnosis

For an accurate diagnosis, a doctor will compile a complete medical history, perform a physical exam, and order neurologic testing.

In addition, an overnight sleep study at a qualified sleep diagnostics center is usually necessary to confirm a diagnosis and help identify the best course of treatment. Reports by a bed partner are also helpful in diagnosis.

Treatment

Tranquilizers like Clonazepam are the treatment of choice for alleviating symptoms and have shown to be effective about 90 percent of the time.

Yet for individuals with sleep apnea or who experience site effects such as continued grogginess upon wakening, the diet supplement, melatonin, is often recommended as an alternative.

Individuals who suffer from REM sleep behavior disorder should avoid alcohol and certain medications - and follow a regular sleep schedule.

Additionally, creating a safe sleeping space is important. Removing sharp objects, blocking windows, and padding objects around the bed can help prevent potential injury until symptoms subside with treatment.

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