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Living with thought of REM sleep disorder leading to Parkinson's

Hi I'm currently going through investigations for REM behaviour disorder and having a sleep study on 20th Sept. But pretty sure I have it. Have slept walked in REM sleep for around 7 years (aged 51 now) and talk, shout etc in sleep. Also wake up sleep walking, standing beside bed so forth about once a month but many times when I don't wake up whilst sleep walking.
I had heard of link between REM disorder and Parkinson's and the sleep specialist has confirmed this saying I have a 50% chance of developing it within next 5 to 20 years. That is freaky so how does one deal with that?
I called the Parkinson's body who said if I have REM disorder I should ask for a referral to a neurologist who specialises in Parkinsons.
What happens once I'm diagnosed? What tests does the neurologist run? Do I need to have regular check ups or more go back if I develop a symptom?
Thanks DJ

Quote:

Originally Posted by DeidreJay (Post 1013275)

What happens once I'm diagnosed? What tests does the neurologist run? Do I need to have regular check ups or more go back if I develop a symptom?

Hi DJ, Welcome.

I did find this:

Quote:

about 40% of individuals who present with RBD without any signs or symptoms of PD will eventually go on to develop PD."

"People with RBD will understandably be concerned about the possibility of the later development of PD, given the statistics," says Mahowald. "We are not aware of anything that can be done to prevent or delay the development of PD in those destined to do so. We recommend an annual evaluation by a neurologist, so if PD is going to develop, it can be detected and treated at the earliest possible time.

"Given the fact that the majority of patients with RBD who went on to develop PD were already taking clonazepam, it is unlikely that clonazepam will reduce the likelihood of developing PD in those so predisposed."
http://www.sleepfoundation.org/artic...rder-and-sleep

Doc