Coping with REM Sleep Disorders

Living a reasonably normal life on a daily basis requires, among many other things, that we get proper and sufficient sleep. Maintaining energy and mental alertness are dependent on a good night's sleep. Persistent lack or sleep can be due to one or more sleep disorders that disrupt our lives, making our normal activities and interaction with family, friends and others difficult.

Understanding REM Sleep Disorders

REM (rapid eye movement) sleep occurs during active dreaming, which takes up approximately 20 to 25 per cent of the time we are sleeping. During this stage, the brain is as active as when you are awake, the blood pressure increases but the body is inactive with the muscles experiencing paralysis or loss of muscle tone, which is normal during sleep.

REM sleep disorders are characterized by reactions such as, talking in your sleep, moving body parts, shouting, jumping and sleepwalking. Basically, your body's muscles actively take part in the activities which are the subject of your dreams. What causes REM sleep disorders is not yet exactly known but it has been recorded in patients with neurological disorders such as, Parkinson diseases, Shy-Drager and Lewy body, which is also known as dementia.

Treating REM Sleep Disorders

Your doctor will prescribe, if indicated, one or more of a variety of drugs available to treat REM sleep disorders. This can be done only after careful examination and study of your condition along with consideration of your medical history or other medical conditions you may have since they may be part of the underlying cause of your REM sleep disorder as well.

In the meantime, preventive steps should be taken while sleeping such as, placing sharp objects away from the bed so the sufferer does not get hurt when moving in sleep. If possible have someone sleep close by to help stop the person from hurting himself in the sleep and if possible place the bedding on the floor in order to avoid the possibility of falling from the bed or consider installing bed rails.

Helpful Tips

Older people are more prone to REM sleep disorders, especially those having existing neurological impairments. For this reason it is not advisable to self medicate with sleep-inducing substances without a prescription from your doctor in order to avoid other possible complications. This is not to rule out, however, natural remedies such as meditation, aromatherapy baths, candles and massages that to help with relaxation and relief from anxiety.

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