We all dream, regardless if we remember what we dreamt or not. There are many theories associated with dream content, but when it comes to certain categories, such as nightmares or recurring dreams, specific conditions can influence what we experience while we sleep.<\/p>\n
While focusing on nightmares, for instance, there appears to be a link between these frightening dreams and conditions such as depression and obstructive sleep apnea. Why does\u00a0 this occur and how do dreams influence dementia patients?\u00a0 Is there something you can do to intervene?<\/p>\n
The Link Between Bad Dreams and Dementia <\/strong><\/p>\n Although dementia is complex, accounting for a number of conditions, one thing is certain \u2014 the brain and one’s level of cognitive functioning are negatively affected. One area that is significantly affected throughout the progression of dementia, is sleep. Perhaps you can relate?<\/p>\n At this time, scientists are not exactly sure why sleep disturbances occur among this population. With that being said, sleep is a highly complex phenomenon that is most certainly rooted in neurologic function \u2014 and due to degenerative effects, it’s not surprising that dementia would affect one’s sleep cycle.<\/p>\n Although nightmares can increase across all dementia patients, bad dreams tend to be highly prevalent among patients with Lewy body dementia. In many cases, sleep disturbance may be apparent years before a diagnosis is made \u2014 which we will discuss below.<\/p>\n Among this population, the most common sleep disturbance are nightmares, accompanied by violent movements. They may try to act out their nightmares, hitting or yelling in fear. This is what’s known as RBD \u2014 rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder.<\/p>\n Do You Suffer From REM Sleep Behavior? You May Be At Risk<\/strong><\/p>\n Based on evidence-based research, it’s tough to ignore the strong link between those who physically act out their dreams and their overall risk of dementia. In fact, it was found that middle-aged men who were physically active during their dreams, known as REM sleep behavior, were five times more likely to develop dementia.<\/p>\n While focusing on the men who do suffer from this disorder, up to 80 percent will go on to develop dementia. Although we often focus on Alzheimer’s, as mentioned, this phenomena is associated with the condition known as dementia with Lewy bodies \u2014 the second most common form of dementia.<\/p>\n In fact, within one study, it was found that thirty-four of 37 patients with both dementia and RBD, met the criteria for dementia with Lewy bodies. In comparison, Alzheimer’s does not appear to be commonly associated with this disorder \u2014 although these patients experience other sleep-related symptoms, such as sundowning.<\/p>\n Within one review, published in Drugs & Aging<\/em>, it was stated that the estimated prevalence of this disorder in adults is around 0.4-0.5%, however, the frequency is significantly higher in those with Lew body dementia and Parkinson’s. Researchers believe that this disorder occurs due to a lack of normal REM muscle atonia, as well as a lack of normal suppression of locomotor generators.<\/p>\n Based on the research, it appears that RBD may be a clear indicator, predating the onset of neurodegeneration by several years. After the onset of this disorder, the five-year risk of developing a neurodegenerative condition after onset ranges anywhere from 18 to 45 percent. When aiming to address this disorder, clonazepam is generally prescribed, followed by melatonin.<\/p>\n How Medication Influences Sleep <\/strong><\/p>\n Speaking of drugs, medication is also a key area of interest, as various drugs can influence sleep quality. Moving away from dementia with Lewy bodies, individuals suffering from any level of cognitive impairment which requires medication, are at risk for drug-induced nightmares.<\/p>\n Within one study, Alzheimer’s patients were examined in terms of nightmare development. Since this disease causes a loss of cholinergic function in the brain, the acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, known as donepezil, was administered. Although this drug can improve cognitive performance, it also influences sleep quality and the manifestation of dreams.<\/p>\n Researchers found a clear association between nightmares and an evening dose of donepezil among Alzheimer’s patients. In comparison, when the dose was taken in the morning, none of these patients reported nightmares \u2014 meaning, the time of intake is relevant. It was concluded that donepezil activates the visual association cortex during REM sleep.<\/p>\n