Sleep is essential in order for us to be able to function normally everyday. A good night’s sleep will refresh our mind and body providing us with the energy and spirit to face a new day. Lack or sleep can cause a variety of disorders that can disrupt our lives, making our daily activity and interaction with others difficult.

Understanding REM Sleep Disorder

Rapid eye movement or REM during sleep occurs when we are actively dreaming, which happens approximately 20 to 25per cent of the time we are asleep. During this time 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.

When you will experience REM sleep disorders, your body’s muscle will actively take part in your dream actions as well as causing reactions such as, talking in your sleep, moving body parts, shouting, jumping and walking. 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

There are a variety of drugs available to treat REM sleep disorders however; choosing the right type for you can only be done by your doctor. He can do so after he has carefully examined your condition and considered your medical history or other medical conditions you may have at present as they may also be part of the cause of your REM sleep disorder.

Patients that suffer from REM sleep disorders should take preventive steps while sleeping such as, placing sharp objects away from the bed so he or she 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

Usually REM sleeping disorders occur in elderly people with an existing neurological disorder due to which reason do not self medicate and/or use sleep-inducing drugs without a doctor’s prescription as they could further deteriorate the condition. However, you may want to try natural remedies such as aromatherapy baths, candles and massages that helps relax the body into a deep and profound sleep mode.