Risk Factors And Complications Linked To REM Sleep Behavior Disorder

Distress Or Injury To Sleeping Partner

One of the most common complications of REM sleep behavior disorder is distress or injury to a sleeping partner. A patient with this condition might punch, shout, flail, jump, kick, or leap from their bed while they're still asleep. They might vividly remember the dreams that caused them to perform these actions. Since they're acting out their dreams, their bodies can go through uncontrolled movements that might cause injury to themselves or their partner. Their partner may also experience distress due to their yelling or unexpected movements. Partners will often express concern regarding a patient's strange sleeping behaviors. It's important for individuals to talk to a sleep specialist if their sleep behaviors are causing injury or distress to themselves or their partner.