Rem Sleep Behavior Disorder Flashcards, test questions and answers

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What is Rem Sleep Behavior Disorder?

Rem Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD) is a condition in which people act out their dreams during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. The disorder involves complex behaviors such as talking, walking, punching, kicking and sitting up in bed while asleep. While people with RBD typically remain asleep during the episodes, they can be violent or disruptive. It is thought that these behaviors may be related to a lack of muscle atonia (muscle paralysis) during REM sleep that normally prevents us from physically acting out our dreams. The exact cause of RBD is unknown, but it appears to be associated with a number of neurological conditions including Parkinson’s disease and Lewy body dementia. In addition, some medications such as antipsychotics and antidepressants can increase the risk for developing RBD. The disorder usually affects men over 50 years old but has been documented in younger individuals as well. Treatment for RBD usually involves lifestyle changes like avoiding alcohol or sedatives before bedtime as well as drugs that suppress REM sleep activity or reduce muscle tone during sleep such as clonazepam or melatonin agonists like ramelteon. In addition, it may be beneficial to practice good sleep hygiene by avoiding caffeine late in the day, exercising regularly and going to bed at the same time each night to promote more restful sleep patterns. In order to diagnose Rem Sleep Behavior Disorder accurately a full medical evaluation should be done including a physical exam and thorough discussion of any current medications being taken along with an analysis of sleeping habits and any other underlying medical conditions that may contribute to the condition. If you think you might have RBD it’s important to speak with your doctor so they can make an accurate diagnosis and provide appropriate treatment options for managing your symptoms effectively.