Neurologist pointed out the connection of bad dreams with Parkinson's disease

Disturbing dreams with an active plot may be one of the early non-specific signs of Parkinson's disease. Ekaterina Demyanovskaya, a neurologist and expert at the Hemotest Laboratory, told Izvestia about this on July 23.

As the specialist explained, Parkinson's disease is manifested by both motor symptoms (tremor, muscle stiffness, slowness of movement) and non-motor disorders, which include sleep problems. Recent research shows that behavior disorder in the REM sleep phase, when a person physically acts out dreams, can occur years before the appearance of a characteristic tremor.

"Sleep disorders in Parkinsonism are associated with an imbalance of dopamine, a key neurotransmitter that regulates sleep and wakefulness cycles. In addition, muscle stiffness, cramps and other symptoms interfere with normal sleep, exacerbating the symptoms of the disorder," explains Demyanovskaya.

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Doctors are particularly concerned about the phenomenon when muscles do not relax during REM sleep, as they normally should. As a result, the sleeper can scream, wave his arms, even get out of bed, which often leads to injuries. According to research, 80% of people with such disorders develop neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease, dementia with Lewy bodies or multisystem atrophy within 10-15 years.

The neurologist recommends paying attention to the combination of disturbing dreams with other early signs: impaired sense of smell, constipation, anxiety, daytime sleepiness. Nightmares with stories of harassment or violence that a person actively plays out are considered characteristic of Parkinsonism.

"If such symptoms occur, it is important to consult a specialist somnologist or neurologist as soon as possible. Timely diagnosis allows you to start therapy earlier and improve the prognosis of the disease," Demyanovskaya emphasizes.

The doctor notes that modern methods of diagnosis and treatment can significantly slow down the development of Parkinson's disease with early detection.

Neurologist Natalia Stepanenko on April 16 pointed out the connection of teeth grinding with Parkinson's disease. According to her, to make a diagnosis, it is necessary to consult a dentist or a neurologist. The doctor will examine the oral cavity and listen to the patient's complaints.

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