Treatment for Sleep Disorders With Parkinson's

In Parkinson's patients sleep problems may manifest because of medications, sleep disorders and Parkinson's disease symptoms. Unfortunately, between 60 to 90 percent of people with Parkinson's disease are affected, according to the Northwestern University's Parkinson's Disease and Movement Disorders Center.

Sleep Disorders Associated with Parkinson's

• REM (Rapid eye movement) sleep behavior disorder, characterized by people living out their dreams while asleep, can contribute to sleep problems, according to the Parkinson's Disease Foundation. The foundation also notes that Parkinson's patients are also more likely to have obstructive sleep apnea, a condition where the air flow is interrupted while asleep.

Symptoms

• Excessive daytime sleepiness and nodding off during the day are symptoms of insomnia.

Medical Treatment

• According to the Parkinson's Disease Foundation, the physician may prescribe an extra dose of anti-Parkinson's disease medication, such as a dopaminergic agent at night, which may be enough to induce sleep in people with Parkinson's disease. Other medications that work with sleep disorders include over-the-counter medications like diphenhydramine.

Devices

• In people with sleep apnea, a facemask and CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine may be used to open the airways and improve sleep.

Prevention/Solution

• Sleep disorders may be prevented in Parkinson's patients by lowering fluid intake before sleep, by avoiding stimulants at night and by keeping consistent sleep schedules. Exercise during the day can also improve sleep at night.