Sleep and Parkinson’s Disease 
​by Erica Byrd, MD and Nicklesh Thakur, DO 
Sutter Medical Group Neurology, Movement Disorders​

Sleep complaints are common in people with Parkinson’s disease. These may include insomnia, fragmented sleep, excessive daytime sleepiness, restless leg syndrome, sleep apnea and dream enactment. Similar sleep disorders are also common in the general population and are routinely evaluated by primary care physicians, neurologists, or sleep specialists.  

Parkinson’s disease medications can affect sleep and contribute to possible side effects of sedation, insomnia or even sleep attacks. Good sleep is vital for brain health and overall well-being.

If sleep is a problem for you it is important to address any modifiable factors affecting your sleep. First, review all medications with your doctor to see if any may be affecting your sleep. This includes over the counter medications or supplements since they may have side effects or interactions with prescribed medications. Second, work on sleep hygiene. Sleep hygiene is a variety of different practices that are necessary to have normal, good quality sleep at night and full daytime alertness. A few tips for improving sleep hygiene include:
 
• Establish a regular sleep schedule with similar wake and sleep patterns seven days a week and block off enough time to sleep
• Avoiding stimulants and large meals right before bed
• Minimize drinking beverages (especially alcohol and caffeine) before bedtime to help avoid frequent nighttime urination
• Make sure sleep space is relaxing and conducive to sleep
• Exercise early in the day and get out into the sunshine for light exposure
• Avoid vigorous exercise right before bed
• Use satin sheets or pajamas to help with turning in bed
 
Third, you should review your sleep patterns and particular reasons for sleep difficulty frequent nighttime urination, insomnia etc.) with your doctor for an individualized plan. A sleep specialist referral or sleep study may be necessary to evaluate your sleep complaints in order to determine specific treatments.

COVID-19: There is still limited information about the effects of COVID-19 specifically regarding Parkinson’s disease, having said that, given the frailty associated with Parkinson’s disease, it would be prudent to be cautious, prepared and follow the precautions recommended by public health departments/ CDC.   During these challenging times, it cannot be emphasized enough the need for all, PD community specifically and the
​community at large, to reach out to each other, offer support and assistance to those most vulnerable and share our resources.