Sleep Problems and How to Manage Them in Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's disease is associated with multiple sleep disorders that can significantly reduce sleep quality and overall quality of life.

• Motor and nonmotor symptoms of Parkinson's disease can disrupt sleep pathways in the central nervous system.
• Rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder can lead to self-injury or injury to partners during the night.
• Restless legs syndrome may cause insomnia and reduce sleep quality due to discomfort and the urge to move the legs before sleep.
• Excessive daytime sleepiness is common in Parkinson's disease and negatively impacts quality of life while increasing fall risk.
• Obstructive sleep apnea can lead to frequent awakenings during sleep and contribute to excessive daytime sleepiness.
• Circadian rhythm dysfunction can alter normal sleep and wake times, leading to further sleep disruption.

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