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Parkinson’s disease itself, or the medications used to control it, can cause a wide variety of sleep problems: insomnia, short or interrupted nights, difficulty turning, cramps, involuntary movements, restless legs, need to urinate, vivid dreams, breathing problems, or daytime drowsiness to name just a few.
This is not unusual. And it is not inconsequential.
The key advice from patient organisations is: “Don’t wait to get help. Talk to your doctor.”
Some people are helped by adjusting their medication or by being referred to a urologist, a physiotherapist, a psychologist or a sleep clinic. Occupational therapists can also help with practical aides such as a smooth undersheet to make turning easier or a toilet next to the bed.
Other patients find that applying good sleep hygiene rules can help improve their sleep.
Vlaams Parkinson Liga provided this useful checklist:
- Exercise: Get at least half an hour’s exercise during the day.
- Limit afternoon naps: One hour maximum.
- Avoid stimulantsg. caffeine, nicotine, alcohol and heavy meals in the evening.
- Routine: Go to bed at approximately the same time every day and get up at around the same time.
- Increase melatonin by turning down the lights and switching off the screen lights on smartphones and tablets.
- Adjust your bedroom temperature: 18°C is ideal – and open a window if you can.
- Relax: Read a book or listen to calming music before bed. Create a ritual.
- Use sleep aids: Consider earplugs, a sleep mask or blackout curtains if you are easily disturbed.
- Don’t panic if you wake during the night. Stay calm. Try to go back to sleep.
- Get up if you really can’t sleep. Keep the lights low. Do something gentle. Return to bed when tired.
Ressources supplémentaires :
- The Michael J. Fox Foundation provides an online .pdf about sleep https://www.michaeljfox.org/sites/default/files/media/document/Sleep%20Guide_3.30.21.pdf
Cet article s'appuie sur les conseils et suggestions formulés par des associations de lutte contre la maladie de Parkinson en Belgique, aux États-Unis, au Canada, au Royaume-Uni, aux Pays-Bas et en France. Il vise à offrir une vue d'ensemble des conseils disponibles, mais ne saurait prétendre à l'exhaustivité. Nous vous invitons à consulter les sites Internet de vos associations locales ou régionales, car celles-ci peuvent disposer d'informations spécifiques adaptées à vos besoins particuliers.
