REM sleep disorder causes violent physical movements during dreams due to a lack of nocturnal paralysis. It is more common in adult males and those with Parkinson’s disease, alcohol withdrawal symptoms, or insomnia. Treatment involves medication and close monitoring by a doctor.
Most people experience a state of deep sleep, known as rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, in which dreams occur, the eyes move rapidly, and brain activity temporarily paralyzes voluntary muscles. The brains of people with REM sleep disorders do not effectively signal nocturnal paralysis of the muscles, often resulting in twitching, leg and arm convulsions, and even the acting out of vivid dreams. Individuals pose a risk to themselves and others by their violent movements, and many afflicted individuals experience physical symptoms due to not getting enough rest. Doctors can help people with REM sleep disorder by closely monitoring their symptoms and prescribing medications to help them sleep soundly at night.
Doctors and researchers believe that REM activity comprises about 25% of sleep at night and is very important in allowing our body and mind to recover and prepare for another day. Individuals with REM sleep disorder, however, are frequently disturbed by sudden, often violent physical movements. While the condition can affect anyone, it is more common in adult males. People who suffer from Parkinson’s disease, alcohol withdrawal symptoms, or insomnia are at increased risk of developing REM sleep disorder. Some individuals experience symptoms such as side effects of antidepressants and other medications.
An individual with REM sleep disorder often tenses up during what should be a very relaxed state of sleep. He or she may start moving, kicking, punching, or twitching suddenly as their bodies respond to dreams. Many people with REM sleep disorder often experience violent dreams and night terrors, where running, fighting, and screaming are physically acted out in bed. They can easily hurt themselves or their partners without remembering the events the morning after an accident.
A person suffering from the disorder can usually find relief by visiting a qualified doctor, who can conduct tests to make a diagnosis and prescribe appropriate medications. Many patients have to sleep in a hospital or research facility, where their body and brain activity is monitored and recorded by sophisticated clinical equipment. Doctors interpret data from sleep studies to diagnose REM sleep disorder and consider treatment options. The most common and effective treatment for the disorder is an anti-anxiety drug known as clonazepam, which relieves symptoms immediately and allows patients to experience normal REM sleep.
REM sleep disorder symptoms are likely to return if patients stop their medications. Therefore, it is essential that sufferers follow doctors’ orders closely to prevent recurring episodes. Patients with underlying medical problems, such as Parkinson’s disease, may need to take other medications or undertake further treatments to prevent sleep problems.
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