As part of treating REM sleep behavior disorder, the sleeping environment is often changed to make it safer for people who suffer from RBD.

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REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD) is a condition that arises from the failure of the body's natural muscle paralysis (atonia) during the REM sleep phase. This lack of paralysis allows individuals to physically act out their dreams, which are often disturbing in nature, leading to high levels of physical activity while asleep.

REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD)

Spielman, R. M., Jenkins, W. J., & Lovett, M. D. (2020, April 22). Psychology (2nd ed.). OpenStax. https://openstax.org/books/psychology-2e/pages/1-introduction

OpenStax Psychology (2nd ed.) Textbook

RBD is mostly associated with being male and above 50 years old even though it can be associated with anyone. Neurodegenerative disorder like Parkinson's is a risk factor. Chronic sleep disorder like narcolepsy is another association. Medications like antidepressants are one risk factor, but recent evidence shows risk factors like alcohol, smoking, and head injury are risk factors.

Risk Factors Associated to RBD

Individuals with REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD) exhibit a wide range of dream-enacting behaviors, which can include violent actions like kicking, punching, and scratching, as well as vocalizations such as yelling. They might also display complex behaviors, such as acting like a frightened or attacked animal. These episodes can lead to significant consequences, including physical injury to the individual or their bed partner and disruption of sleep. A key feature of this disorder is that the person typically has no memory of these events upon waking.

Symptoms and Consequences of REM Sleep Behavior Disorder

REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD) has a strong association with various neurodegenerative diseases, most notably Parkinson's disease. This link is so significant that the presence of RBD is often considered a valuable indicator that can assist in the diagnosis and subsequent treatment of these underlying neurological conditions.

Association of RBD with Neurodegenerative Diseases

Safety Modifications for RBD Sleep Environments

For rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder (RBD), clonazepam is the medication most often used. Clonazepam is an anti-anxiety drug with sedative properties, and it may be administered by itself or together with melatonin, the hormone secreted by the pineal gland.

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