Sleep

Sleep problems are prevalent among people with Parkinson’s. Sleep problems including insomnia, Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS), Periodic Limb Movements Disorder (PLMD), Excessive Daytime Sleepiness (EDS), and REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD). Behavioral changes known as good sleep hygiene may be quite helpful for insomnia. Good sleep hygiene includes having a consistent bedtime and wake-up time, using the bed only for sleep, reducing light in the bedroom, not using technology in the hour before sleep, and decreased fluid consumption before bed. Medication may also have a role to play in the treatment sleep problems for people with Parkinson’s, but a combined behavioral and medication treatment plan is often best.