Sleep Problems

04/14/2011

Most people with Parkinson’s suffer from sleep problems or daytime sleepiness at some time in their disease. Some problems can precede the onset of movement problems and may be an early sign of disease such as REM Sleep Behavior disorder. Some conditions are not uncommon but may be more common in people with PD such as restless leg syndrome and sleep apnea. Others can be worsened or caused by medication as noted with vivid dreams, sleep attacks and daytime hyper-somnolence. Learn more about these problems and be sure to review Sleep Hygiene- tips to sleep better.

Trouble Falling Asleep

Restless Leg Syndrome, RLS

Poor Sleep Hygiene- see worksheet

Mood problems - depression and anxiety

Motor and Bed Discomfort/ Safety

Medication- Selegeline (MAO B inhibitor) can cause insomnia and hallucinations

due to its amphetamine metabolite.

Trouble During Sleep

Vivid dreams and night time hallucinations
Periodic leg movement disorder (PLMD)- described in RLS
Sleep apnea
REM sleep behavior disorder (acting out dreams during sleep)

Early Awakening or Fragmented Sleep

Altered Sleep Architecture-Fragmented sleep with frequent or early morning awakening is a common problem. This is due to a change in the sleep architecture or pattern of sleep stages. Deeper more advanced stages of sleep are reduced in Parkinson's leading to earlier awakening and unrefreshed sleep.
Depression- often leads to early awakening
Nocturia (frequent nighttime urination)
Movement Discomfort

[See Accompanying article for more information on daytime sleepiness.]

Author: Monique Giroux, MD

www.nwpf.org/wellness

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