REM Sleep Behavior Disorder

About REM Sleep Behavior Disorder

REM sleep behavior disorder is characterized by repeated episodes of arousal during sleep with vocalization and complex motor behaviors, often as if acting out dreams that may be vivid and involve being chased or attacked. Normally the muscles are largely relaxed during rapid eye movement sleep, and in this condition that relaxation is lost. Because episodes occur during REM sleep, they tend to happen later in the night, and people usually wake quickly and can recall the dream. Injuries to the person or bed partner can occur. Diagnosis usually involves a sleep study confirming REM sleep without normal muscle relaxation. The condition most often appears in older adults and is more commonly diagnosed in men. Research has shown a strong association between isolated REM sleep behavior disorder and later development of neurodegenerative conditions such as Parkinson disease and dementia with Lewy bodies, so specialist follow up is often recommended. Management includes making the sleep environment safe and medication in some cases.