REM behavior disorder

REM Behavior Disorder (RBD) is a sleep disorder that is characterized by the loss of muscle atonia (muscle relaxation) during Rapid Eye Movement sleep (REM sleep), resulting in the individual acting out their dreams. This can lead to potentially harmful actions to the individual or others around them.

Symptoms

The main symptom of REM Behavior Disorder is dream-enacting behaviors, which can include talking, yelling, punching, kicking, sitting, jumping from bed, arm flailing, and grabbing. These behaviors can be potentially harmful to the individual or others around them. Other symptoms can include:

• Sleep talking
• Sleepwalking
• Nightmares
• Sleep paralysis
• Hallucinations

Causes

The exact cause of REM Behavior Disorder is unknown, but it is believed to be linked to degenerative neurological conditions such as Parkinson's disease, Multiple system atrophy, and Lewy body dementia. It can also be caused by withdrawal from certain medications, including sedatives and alcohol.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of REM Behavior Disorder is usually done through a clinical interview and may be confirmed with a sleep study. Other tests may include a MRI or CT scan to rule out other potential causes.

Treatment

Treatment for REM Behavior Disorder usually involves managing any underlying conditions and using medications to suppress REM sleep. This can include Clonazepam and Melatonin. In some cases, changes to the sleep environment may be necessary to prevent injury.

See also

• Sleep disorder
• Rapid Eye Movement sleep
• Parkinson's disease
• Multiple system atrophy
• Lewy body dementia

References

REM behavior disorder Resources
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