We all need to sleep so that our bodies can heal and renew itself. Parkinson's disease can affect a person's ability to fall asleep or stay asleep. The disrupted sleep patterns can create the...

We all need to sleep so that our bodies can heal and renew itself. Parkinson’s disease can affect a person’s ability to fall asleep or stay asleep. The disrupted sleep patterns can create the symptoms of being fatigued. Factors that may influence the quality of sleep are having vivid dreams, having hallucinations, experiencing painful night cramps, restlessness, and trouble getting in and out of bed. The symptom of frequent urination can also disrupt sleep. Other factors that may cause sleep disruption are depression, anxiety, and shortness of breath, heartburn, pain or other discomfort that keep the patient awake. They may also experience burning extremities or a general feeling of being too cold. Extremities can also feel sensitive. While in bed, the person with Parkinson’s may have leg jerks that can disrupt the sleep of the partner and even kick them. Medications can sometimes contribute to sleep difficulties. There are many things that can influence our sleep pattern including taking antihistamines prior to bed, or consuming drinks or food with caffeine, such as coffee, tea, even chocolate. Alcohol is a stimulant that may make you tired at first, but the stimulant in it will eventually keep you awake.

Solving Sleep problems:

If you are having difficulty getting in and out of bed you can install bed rails, a trapeze, or use something that you can pull yourself with. It may be beneficial for you to see a physical therapist to help with exercises to strengthen muscles.

If you have trouble getting or staying asleep you should avoid any type of stimulant, do not nap during the day, and also avoid using the bedroom for other activities other than to sleep in. Your doctor can help you with how to fall asleep and stay asleep. If depression is stopping you from getting to sleep, your doctor may prescribe antidepressant or other medications to counteract the Parkinson’s symptoms.

Some patients experience shortness of breath, heartburn, or trouble getting out of bed. Raising the head of the bed can help with all of these things. Your doctor may be able to give you more suggestions.

If you have having trouble with your foot or leg sensitivity you may wish to use a bed hoop, blanket cradle, an electric blanket or a light down comforter. Some of these complaints can be the result of other diseases. Talk to your doctor to determine if your symptoms are from any other disease.

Sometimes the legs can become restless, or develop painful cramping or have abnormal movements. The symptoms are similar to restless leg syndrome, so it is important to get a thorough examination. Relaxation techniques or stretching exercises may be of help.

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