Sleep Disorders: When Talking and Moving in Sleep Becomes a Concern

Q: Sleep Disorders: When Talking and Moving in Sleep Becomes a Concern

Hello Grace： Your condition is likely what is known as "REM Sleep Behavior Disorder." Normally, during dreaming, a person's muscles relax; however, individuals with REM Sleep Behavior Disorder maintain muscle tone during dreams, which can lead to acting out their dreams. <br>To c

Sleep disorders

Hello Doctor: Since I was young, I have often talked in my sleep, and what I say is usually either cursing or crying out (my mom frequently comes to my room to check on me because of the volume of my sleep talking).
Recently, since I started living with my boyfriend, he has also begun to notice this phenomenon.
He says that while I sleep, I sometimes hit the bed and even hit him.
After hearing him, I feel quite embarrassed 😅.
Sometimes I wake myself up by talking in my sleep, usually while cursing, and when I wake up, my feelings of anger are very apparent, but within a few seconds, I fall back asleep.
I might wake up several times in one night.
Over the past two weeks, my sleep talking has occurred almost every day, and the instances of moving around in my sleep are increasing.
I wake up feeling very tired, as if I haven't slept at all, and my emotions are also affected, making me feel trapped in a vicious cycle.
Should I seek medical attention for this condition?

Grace, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/06/22

Dr. Lin Mianzhang reply Psychiatry

Hello Grace: Your condition is likely what is known as "REM Sleep Behavior Disorder." Normally, during dreaming, a person's muscles relax; however, individuals with REM Sleep Behavior Disorder maintain muscle tone during dreams, which can lead to acting out their dreams.
To confirm the diagnosis, a sleep study is necessary, and you can seek evaluation at a sleep center in major hospitals.
Since your condition has already caused distress for both yourself and your partner, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly to improve the situation.
Wishing you a speedy recovery!

Reply Date: 2022/06/22

More Info

Sleep disorders can significantly impact your quality of life, and the symptoms you describe suggest that you may be experiencing a condition known as parasomnia, which includes behaviors such as sleep talking and sleep acting out dreams. These behaviors can be disruptive not only to your own sleep but also to those around you, as you've noted with your boyfriend's experiences.

From your description, it seems that your sleep disturbances have intensified recently, with frequent episodes of talking in your sleep, expressing anger, and even physically moving during sleep. This can lead to feelings of exhaustion upon waking, which is concerning. The fact that you wake up feeling angry and then quickly fall back asleep indicates that your sleep cycles are being disrupted, preventing you from achieving restorative sleep.

There are several potential factors that could contribute to your situation. Stress and anxiety are common triggers for sleep disturbances. Given that you mentioned feeling emotionally affected by your sleep issues, it’s possible that underlying stressors in your life, such as relationship dynamics or personal pressures, could be exacerbating your sleep problems. Additionally, changes in your sleep environment, such as moving in with your boyfriend, can also influence your sleep patterns and behaviors.

Another aspect to consider is the possibility of REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD), particularly if your sleep talking and movements are accompanied by vivid dreams. RBD is characterized by the acting out of dreams, which can sometimes involve shouting, hitting, or other vigorous movements. This condition is more common in older adults but can occur at any age and may be associated with other neurological conditions.

Given the frequency and intensity of your symptoms, it would be advisable to consult with a healthcare professional, preferably a sleep specialist or a psychologist who specializes in sleep disorders. They can conduct a thorough evaluation, which may include a sleep study (polysomnography) to monitor your sleep patterns and behaviors. This assessment will help determine the underlying causes of your sleep disturbances and guide appropriate treatment options.

In the meantime, there are several strategies you can implement to help improve your sleep quality:
1. Sleep Hygiene: Establish a consistent sleep schedule by going to bed and waking up at the same time every day. Create a calming bedtime routine to signal to your body that it’s time to wind down.

2. Sleep Environment: Ensure your sleeping environment is conducive to rest. This includes a comfortable mattress and pillows, a cool room temperature, and minimizing noise and light.

3. Stress Management: Engage in relaxation techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or gentle yoga before bed to help reduce anxiety and promote a sense of calm.

4. Limit Stimulants: Avoid caffeine and heavy meals close to bedtime, as these can interfere with your ability to fall asleep and stay asleep.

5. Communication: Talk openly with your boyfriend about your sleep issues. His support can be beneficial, and he may have insights that could help you manage the situation better.

6. Avoid Napping: If you find that napping during the day affects your nighttime sleep, try to limit or eliminate naps to improve your overall sleep quality.

In conclusion, while occasional sleep talking and movement can be normal, the frequency and impact on your daily life suggest that it’s time to seek professional help. Addressing these issues early can prevent them from escalating and help you regain restful sleep, ultimately improving your emotional well-being and relationship dynamics.

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