RBD is categorized as a parasomnia, which includes undesired occurrences while sleeping.
RBD is a condition which involves one's vivid dreams being acted out during sleep. Initially, the activity caused by it could be mild but as time goes on, it tends to become more aggressive and can even be violent. Despite this, it is probably going to go unnoticed for several years until the eventual outcome of someone either dreaming or their bed partner being hurt.
RBD can be mistaken for sleepwalking and sleep terrors, but usually it's easy to wake the person up and they can remember details of their vivid dream. Unlike these other disorders, the individual will become quickly alert when awoken.
- Shouting
- Swearing
- Flailing
- Grabbing
- Punching
- Kicking
- Jumping
- Leaping
For example, a man with RBD might dream of playing a game of football, diving from his bed to catch the winning touchdown pass. Alternatively, he could imagine being pursued by an attacker, causing him to leap out of bed in order to flee.
People with RBD rarely walk, have open eyes, or wander from the room. Such occurrences are typical of sleepwalking. Eating, drinking, sexual activity, or relieving oneself is not part of an episode of RBD.
During normal sleep, a person can experience RBD episodes that occur around every 1.5 to 2 hours. Generally, they will show up at least an hour and a half after going to sleep and may stay until morning. On average, people have up to four episodes in one night, but they can happen as infrequently as once weekly or monthly. Naps are typically not associated with RBD happenings.
RBD can be present without daytime sleepiness, however, it usually accompanies other sleep disorders which may lead to an individual feeling drowsy during the day.