Humans spend approximately one-third of their lives asleep. Inadequate sleep can lead to decreased concentration, impaired memory, and emotional instability. If you find yourself shouting or kicking during sleep, you may be experiencing rapid eye movement (REM) sleep behavior disorder (RBD).
RBD, characterized by rapid eye movement, accounts for 20-25% of total sleep time. People typically experience 5-7 REM cycles per night, during which most dreaming occurs.
This stage of sleep is crucial for processing daily mental activities. While the body rests, the brain remains active. Insufficient RBD can result in memory deficits, anxiety, and depression.
RBD is a condition in which muscle paralysis fails during sleep, causing individuals to carry out the actions in their dreams. It’s more prevalent in older adults and men and is sometimes called “elderly sleep-acting.”
Unlike sleepwalking, which involves simple actions during non-RBD, this disorder often involves enacting violent dream scenarios.
Severe cases can lead to shouting or thrashing limbs, potentially causing harm to the individual or their bed partner. Reported injuries range from bruises and abrasions to rare instances of fractures and brain hemorrhages.
While the exact cause remains unclear, experts believe it may involve dysfunction in the brainstem’s motor control. The disorder is associated with neurodegenerative conditions like dementia and Parkinson’s disease.
Studies suggest that individuals with this disorder face an increased risk of developing dementia. Vocalization or limb movements during dreams may indicate declining brain function.
The prevalence of RBD in Korea is 2.01%, and there are also research results showing that 1 in 10 Koreans (15.9%) aged 50 to 80 are in the pre-RBD stage.
Diagnosis typically begins with a thorough medical history, followed by polysomnography if necessary. This comprehensive sleep study evaluates brain waves, muscle activity, and breathing patterns. Electromyography often reveals increased muscle tone during RBD and abnormal behaviors.
While there’s no complete cure, treatment focuses on symptom management through medication adjustments. Given the potential progression to neurodegenerative diseases, early intervention is crucial for those experiencing symptoms.
Kim Jin Hee, head of the neurology department at Seran Hospital, explained, “If RBD and olfactory dysfunction occur together, you should receive treatment, including a sleep test, as soon as possible.”
“Active treatment is necessary not only for the safety of the person but also for the safety of those around you who sleep with you,” stated Yoon Ho-kyung, a professor of psychiatry at Korea University Ansan Hospital. “If you suffer from RBD, you may have poor sleep quality and severe depression,” he said.
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