Tips for Sleep With Parkinson's Disease

Getting a good night's sleep is certainly not an easy feat for many individuals across the globe. For those who have physical symptoms related to Parkinson's disease (PD), an evening's sleep is easier said than done. Quality sleep is almost universally agreed upon as a must for everyone, but especially for those facing PD at any stage or form. According to the National Sleep Foundation (NSF), a poll they conducted in 2013 showed that less than half of those questioned in various countries were sleeping well at night. Although a good night's sleep can be subjective on numerous accounts, it is important to remember that there are overall accepted tips within the world of sleep research. Before establishing a new sleep routine or bedtime habit, it is important for those with Parkinson's to discuss any new information with a trusted healthcare provider.

Quality sleep is considered to be very important for all individuals, but it is of the utmost importance for those who suffer from Parkinson’s disease, no matter the stage or form being dealt with. Below are a few tips that can help an individual with Parkinson’s sleep better, but before one applies these tips or alters their bedtime routine to their new lifestyle, it is important to first discuss them with their doctor:

• Some individuals may experience uncomfortable sleeping habits right from childhood, which are not easy to change during the later stages of life. But it is important to establish proper and regular bedtime habits that can improve the symptoms of their disease. Set up a bedtime schedule or a ritual that is comfortable and relaxing for the individual since a lack of sleep or interrupted sleep can only worsen the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
• Try to block out any sounds or noises while going to bed or about half an hour before bed time. By doing so, it can help to take another step towards a better sleep routine. Try to block out lights, which can prove to be a disturbance or interruption during sleep. Individuals who are not comfortable sleeping in complete silence can go in for white noise machines or reach out to their doctor for recommendations on medical devices that can promote good sleep. Try to keep your phone, tablet, smartphones, laptop, etc., away, too.
• Those with Parkinson’s disease should avoid using their knees to get into bed or crawling and using their knees. This has been shown to cause discomfort in the body and can also lead to tremors in other parts of it. Discuss with your doctor and find the best sleeping method as well as ways to approach your mattress by using proper techniques.
• Before the onset of Parkinson’s disease, some individuals may already be suffering from numerous sleep-related issues or disorders, and so it becomes important to address those issues as early as possible to gain the most benefits for the entire body and also to help treat PD more effectively during its later stages. Those who already suffer from insomnia or other sleep issues prior to PD often find that these symptoms tend to worsen as time passes.
• Instead of going in for medications to tackle sleep issues, try to avoid them since medications are known to have their own side effects that can be bothersome or even dangerous. Instead, you can try to carry out small changes in your routine that can help to provide you with a quality night’s sleep. One suggestion would be to avoid small naps during the day in order to sleep easier at night. Once you are out of bed, try to perform certain activities that relax you or divert your mind.

Try to find the right components of a good night’s sleep for those suffering from Parkinson’s disease.