REM sleep disorders are sometimes confused with regular nightmares, the frequency of which can be increased by antiparkinsonian medications. Nightmares, although sometimes traumatic, are harmless and do not involve violent acts.
If you have this sleep disorder, you may be able to remember your dreams. However, you probably won’t remember events that happened in your room, such as your screams or violent episodes.
Your partner is the person who can best help you recognize this Parkinson’s symptom. Talk about it together and keep a sleep diary for a few weeks to record your observations about the frequency and nature of your nighttime behaviour. These details will help your doctor better understand your condition.
For an accurate diagnosis, your doctor will refer you to a center specializing in sleep studies. You will spend one night there during which the medical team will monitor the activity of your brain, muscles and breathing. With these tests, they will be able to determine with certainty if you have REM sleep behaviour disorder. Appropriate treatment may then be recommended.