Sleep Disorders: Nightmares and Body Movements Explained

Sleep concerns?

Since elementary school, I have experienced nightmares where my body moves as I wake up, usually involving my legs or body.
I can remember the last scene of the dream, and when I feel my body move, I immediately wake up with a racing heart.
I often find myself reacting as if someone is trying to hit me, and I need to dodge or counterattack.
Just as my body is about to move in the dream, I suddenly wake up, and my body continues to perform the actions I intended in the dream.
Based on my experience in elementary school, my mother also has this phenomenon, but she does not wake up.
However, I have been awakened by her during these episodes, and she thinks it is quite normal (there is no history of dementia in our family).
Is this considered a sleep disorder? Could it possibly be a hereditary issue? I reviewed my records and found that I had consulted a specialist about this two years ago, and the phenomenon disappeared afterward.
I had forgotten about it until last year when it occurred only once or twice, both times after using lavender shampoo.
After I stopped using it, the episodes ceased.
This year, it seems to have happened only once.
Could this possibly be related to Parkinson's disease?

Niming, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/05/23

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello, based on your description, if the body movements during the rapid eye movement (REM) sleep are caused by Parkinson's disease, patients typically have difficulty recalling the events upon waking.
Your issue may warrant consideration of obstructive sleep apnea: this condition is commonly due to the obstruction of the airway by soft tissues near the throat, leading to a narrowing of the upper airway, which can result in snoring and breathing cessation.
Abnormalities in the upper airway structure, excessive relaxation of the airway muscles, and obesity are also common triggers.
When blood oxygen levels drop to a certain extent, it can cause sleep interruptions, leading to vivid dream recall.
It is recommended that you consult a sleep medicine specialist to discuss evaluation (including polysomnography) and treatment options.
Wishing you good health and peace.

Reply Date: 2018/05/23

More Info

Understanding sleep disorders, particularly those involving nightmares and body movements, is crucial for identifying potential underlying issues and determining appropriate interventions. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing a phenomenon known as "REM sleep behavior disorder" (RBD), which is characterized by the acting out of dreams during the REM (Rapid Eye Movement) stage of sleep. This disorder can manifest as physical movements, vocalizations, or even violent actions in response to dreams, which can lead to waking up startled and confused.

In your case, the fact that you remember the content of your dreams and the associated movements suggests that you are experiencing vivid dreams, which is common in RBD. The sudden awakening and the sensation of your body moving in response to the dream content, such as dodging or fighting, are also indicative of this disorder. It's worth noting that RBD is more prevalent in older adults and can sometimes be associated with neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson's disease. However, it is essential to understand that experiencing RBD does not automatically mean you will develop Parkinson's disease, especially if there are no other symptoms present.

The hereditary aspect you mentioned is also significant. Sleep disorders can have a genetic component, and if your mother experiences similar symptoms, it could suggest a familial tendency toward sleep disturbances. However, the exact mechanisms of inheritance for sleep disorders are not fully understood, and more research is needed in this area.

Regarding the use of lavender shampoo and its correlation with your symptoms, it is interesting to note that certain scents and environmental factors can influence sleep quality and dream vividness. Lavender is often associated with relaxation and improved sleep quality, but individual responses can vary. If you noticed a change in your symptoms after using a specific product, it might be worth considering whether other environmental factors or stressors could be contributing to your sleep disturbances.

To address your concerns about whether this could be a sign of a more serious condition, such as Parkinson's disease, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional, particularly a sleep specialist or a neurologist. They can conduct a thorough evaluation, which may include a sleep study (polysomnography) to monitor your sleep patterns and movements. This assessment can help determine if you have RBD or another sleep disorder and guide appropriate treatment options.

In conclusion, while your experiences may indicate a sleep disorder, particularly REM sleep behavior disorder, it is essential to seek professional evaluation to rule out any serious underlying conditions. Addressing sleep disturbances early can lead to better management and improved sleep quality, ultimately enhancing your overall well-being. If you have further concerns or if your symptoms worsen, do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider for assistance.

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