Exploring the Link Between Parkinson's Disease and Sleepwalking

Is there a correlation between Parkinson's disease and sleepwalking?

Hello Doctor, I apologize for bothering you with a question.
A senior member of my family has mild Parkinson's disease, which causes involuntary shaking of the hands and feet.
They have seen a doctor and are on medication to manage the symptoms.
Recently, the senior has been experiencing significant movements during sleep due to dreams, which often disturbs the person sleeping next to them.
The situation has worsened, as they have started getting out of bed and moving around in response to their dreams.
I am unsure if this could be classified as sleepwalking and whether it is related to Parkinson's disease.
The effectiveness of the Parkinson's medication has been unclear, and the senior has not been taking it regularly for some time.
I wonder if these issues are all connected.
Thank you for your assistance!

Eason Liao, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/08/19

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello, based on your description, the symptoms exhibited by the elderly individual may represent a manifestation of REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD).
During the REM phase of sleep, muscle tone throughout the body decreases to its lowest level, preventing any movements, no matter how vigorous, from being expressed in the real world.
However, patients with this disorder can act out their dreams in reality, often involving violent scenarios, such as fighting or being chased, which can lead to self-injury or harm to their bed partner.
This condition is more prevalent in older adults, predominantly affecting males, and approximately 40% of these patients may develop conditions such as Parkinson's disease.
Those with a history of central nervous system infections are also at a higher risk.
However, 60% of patients do not have a specific identifiable cause.
It is currently believed that the underlying issue lies in the neurons or neural pathways in the brainstem that are responsible for regulating muscle tone, which fail to perform their normal functions, leading to REM Sleep Behavior Disorder.
It is advisable to consult a neurologist for further evaluation and treatment.
Wishing you good health and peace.

Reply Date: 2015/08/19

More Info

The symptoms you describe regarding your elderly family member with Parkinson's disease are indeed concerning and warrant a closer examination. Sleep disturbances, including sleepwalking or acting out dreams, can be linked to Parkinson's disease, particularly in its later stages. This phenomenon is often referred to as REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD), where individuals physically act out their dreams, which can sometimes lead to injury to themselves or their bed partners.

Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement and can lead to a variety of non-motor symptoms, including sleep disturbances. The connection between Parkinson's and sleepwalking or RBD is significant. In patients with Parkinson's, the degeneration of certain brain areas can disrupt the normal regulation of sleep, particularly the REM phase, where most dreaming occurs. During REM sleep, the body typically experiences muscle atonia (temporary paralysis) to prevent acting out dreams. However, in individuals with RBD, this paralysis is absent, leading to the physical acting out of dreams, which can manifest as sleepwalking or other vigorous movements.

Given that your family member has been experiencing increased movement during sleep, it is crucial to consider the following:
1. Medication Compliance: You mentioned that the elderly individual has not been taking their medication regularly. This is critical, as Parkinson's medications help manage both motor and non-motor symptoms. Inconsistent medication can lead to a worsening of symptoms, including sleep disturbances.

2. Consultation with a Specialist: It is advisable to consult a neurologist or a sleep specialist who can conduct a thorough evaluation. They may recommend a sleep study (polysomnography) to observe the sleep patterns and movements during sleep. This can help confirm whether the behaviors are indeed related to RBD or if there are other underlying issues.

3. Safety Precautions: Since the individual is getting out of bed and moving around, it is essential to ensure their safety. Consider implementing measures such as removing sharp objects from the vicinity, using bed rails, or even placing a mattress on the floor to prevent injury from falls.

4. Sleep Hygiene: Improving sleep hygiene can also be beneficial. This includes maintaining a regular sleep schedule, creating a comfortable sleep environment, and avoiding stimulants like caffeine close to bedtime.

5. Monitoring and Reporting Changes: Keep a detailed log of the sleep disturbances, including the frequency and nature of the movements, and any changes in medication or health status. This information can be invaluable for healthcare providers in adjusting treatment plans.

In summary, the sleepwalking-like behavior observed in your family member could indeed be related to their Parkinson's disease, particularly if they are experiencing REM Sleep Behavior Disorder. It is essential to address medication adherence, consult with healthcare professionals, and ensure safety measures are in place. By taking these steps, you can help manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life for your loved one.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Sleep Talking: Is It a Sign of Parkinson's Disease?

My roommate says that I often scream in my sleep, about once or twice a month, but I am not aware of it. I curse and seem to be arguing with someone. I looked it up online and it said this could be a precursor to Parkinson's disease... what should I do?

Dr. Hong Weibin reply Neurology
Hello: Talking loudly in your sleep is not a precursor to Parkinson's disease. This phenomenon is known as sleep talking (somniloquy). It is a common occurrence among many people, with up to 66% experiencing it. There may be a slight genetic predisposition. To improve sleep ...

Understanding Parkinson's Disease Risk: Concerns for Family History and Symptoms

Hello Doctor, my grandmother had Parkinson's disease in the past, and I have primary restless legs syndrome, although my symptoms are very mild, occurring only one or two days a month with slight discomfort. I am very worried about the possibility of developing Parkinson...

Dr. Hong Weibin reply Neurology
Current research shows that there is no definitive conclusion regarding whether having Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) increases the likelihood of developing Parkinson's disease later on. Some studies suggest there may be an increased risk, while others find no correlation. The...

Managing Parkinson's Disease: Addressing Anxiety and Daily Challenges

Dear Dr. Jiang, My mother was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease last August at the age of 66. She has had long-standing insomnia issues and has a naturally introverted and anxious personality. It wasn't until last year that she experienced weakness in her left lower l...

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology
Hello Ms. Chen, You mentioned, "Heavy metal testing, due to living in the countryside and working in hotel housekeeping for 25 years. If there has indeed been excessive exposure and treatment, would it improve symptoms, and would her mood improve?" For atypical Parkins...

Understanding Parkinson's Disease: Impact, Treatment, and Social Challenges

1. Please provide a brief introduction to the disease, including its English name, prevalence, treatment methods, and stages. 2. Discuss the impact of the disease on patients' social and psychological well-being, recovery, and life cycle.

Dr. Liu Jinyong reply Family Medicine
Parkinson's disease is a common neurodegenerative disorder that typically occurs in middle-aged and older adults, with the average onset age being between 50 and 79 years. The main clinical symptoms of this disease include bradykinesia, tremors in the hands, feet, or other p...