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Individuals with REM sleep behavior disorder can act out what happens in their dreams. You might run or fight someone in your dream and then wake up running or fighting because it tends to be a more violent or aggressive action. As a result of REM sleep behavior disorder, people may hurt themselves and their bed partners.
Among the behaviors are twitching, uttering, flailing, kicking, sitting up, and getting out of bed. An individual may wake up at the end of an episode, become immediately attentive, and then be able to provide a coherent dream story.
Getting diagnosed with REM sleep behavior disorder
The reason this disorder is getting more attention is twofold: First, we now understand that a variety of different medications have the potential to cause people to develop this condition. Second, we understand that there is a very strong correlation between this REM sleep behavior disorder and specific neurological conditions like Parkinson's disease.
In fact, REM behavior disorder affects a sizable portion of Parkinson's patients. It can occasionally be the first sign of Parkinson's disease to appear. It's crucial that we investigate anyone who engages in that type of nighttime activity, such as dream reenactment. It is best to speak with your doctor if you suspect you may have a REM sleep behavior disorder. So, your doctor might suggest that you see a sleep doctor.
Your doctor will first perform a physical and neurological examination. To rule out any additional causes, such as alcohol, drugs, or narcolepsy, a sleep condition that frequently coexists with REM sleep behavior disorder.
Your doctor will also check for signs of Parkinson's disease, such as hand tremors or muscle stiffness, due to the frequent co-occurrence of Parkinsonian syndrome and REM sleep behavior disorder. They might also inquire of your bedmate if they have ever witnessed you acting out your dreams while you were asleep. They'll enquire as to what sort of dream enactment actions they saw.
Treatment of REM sleep behavior disorder
Sleep specialists generally opt for a multidisciplinary approach. While they may do their assessments and prescribe medications, it is important to take care of yourself and improve sleep hygiene. Here are some ways in which you can manage this disorder:
1) Safety is key
There are a number of methods to go about creating a safe atmosphere for you and your spouse while using home remedies for REM sleep behavior disorders. A pad next to the bed might be helpful if you frequently leap out of bed or trip and tumble to the floor.
It's also beneficial to install guard rails if you can, and if not, to keep any sharp or dangerous things out of the bedroom. Also, until symptoms are well controlled, your partner might choose to sleep in a different bed or room.
2) Medication
Almost 90% of patients have some relief from their symptoms after taking clonazepam, an FDA-approved medicine for treating seizures, panic disorder, and anxiety. There is little sign of tolerance or abuse.
The first week usually sees a response to clonazepam, frequently on the first night. There hasn't been enough research on the advantages of anti-depressants, yet some of them may be beneficial as well.
3) Bed alarm
In line with keeping your family's safety intact, you can also place a bed alarm next to your bed. This will ring as soon as you jump off or get out of bed. This may seem like an extreme measure, but in the long run, it can be a really crucial and novel way to deal with emergencies.
Contact your healthcare physician if you are worried that you could be exhibiting symptoms of REM sleep behavior disorder or any other sleep issue. They can assist you in arranging any necessary testing to support a diagnosis.
They will work with you to create a treatment strategy to control your symptoms and keep an eye out for any possible neurological conditions. Getting assistance can lead to a better night's sleep and help you beat REM sleep behavior disorder!
Janvi Kapur is a counselor with a Master's degree in applied psychology with a specialization in clinical psychology.
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