Parasomnia (abnormal movement or behavior in sleep): Restless Leg Syndrome, Sleepwalking -

Parasomnia (abnormal movement or behavior in sleep): Restless Leg Syndrome, Sleepwalking

It is a disruptive sleep disorder which involves abnormal movements, behaviors, emotions, perceptions, or dreams that occur while falling asleep, during sleep, or upon waking.

This includes:

1. Restless Leg Syndrome – It is a neurological condition marked by an uncontrollable urge to move the legs, usually due to unpleasant sensations, especially during rest or at night.

Causes

Iron deficiency
Pregnancy
Kidney failure
Neuropathy
Parkinson’s disease
Genetic factors
Certain medications

Symptoms

Urge to move the legs, mostly at rest
Tingling, crawling, or burning sensations in legs
Relief with movement
Worsens at night
Disturbs the sleep

Diagnosis

Based on clinical history
Blood tests for iron levels
Sleep study

Treatment

Iron supplements (if low ferritin)
Dopamine agonists
Gabapentin/ pregabalin
Avoid caffeine/alcohol
Good sleep hygiene

2. Sleepwalking – In this the person walks or performs other complex behaviors while still asleep, usually during sleep (NREM stage 3).

Cause

Sleep deprivation
Stress or anxiety
Fever (in children)
Medication
Sleep disorders
Genetics

Symptoms

Sitting up in bed and walking around during sleep.
Open eyes with a blank stare.
May talk, eat, or perform tasks while asleep.
Usually occurs in the first half of the night.

Diagnosis

Clinical history from family/roommates
Sleep diary
Polysomnography

Treatment

Ensure a safe sleep environment.
Reduce stress, follow a consistent sleep schedule.
Avoid triggers (caffeine, alcohol, sleep deprivation)
Medications if episodes are frequent or dangerous.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is restless leg syndrome dangerous?

No, not life threatening but it can severely disrupt sleep and affect the quality of life.

2. Can sleepwalking be cured?

It often resolves with age in children. And in adults, managing the triggers and stress helps to reduce the episodes.

3. Can RLS affect other body parts?

Yes, in severe cases it may affect the arms or torso, though the legs are most common.

4. Can Parasomnia be prevented?

Yes, following good sleep hygiene, reducing stress, and treating underlying causes can help to prevent or reduce the episodes.