REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD) and using a CPAP can feel like a lot to manage at once — but many people with Parkinson's find ways to make it work.
For CPAP use specifically, some key tips that help people stick with it include:
- Adjusting sleep position — sleeping more upright can sometimes ease breathing difficulties Show Full Answer
REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD) and using a CPAP can feel like a lot to manage at once — but many people with Parkinson's find ways to make it work.
For CPAP use specifically, some key tips that help people stick with it include:
- Adjusting sleep position — sleeping more upright can sometimes ease breathing difficulties and make CPAP more comfortable
- Talking to your doctor about medication timing — when you take your Parkinson's medications can affect nighttime breathing and sleep quality
- Staying consistent — it takes time to get used to a CPAP, but regular use tends to bring the most benefit One MyParkinsonsTeam member shared that sleeping in a more upright position — like in an adjustable chair — helped them get more hours of sleep when lying flat wasn't working.
It's really worth bringing both RBD and CPAP concerns up with your neurologist together, since Parkinson's-related changes in the brain can affect how well the body regulates breathing during sleep. They may be able to fine-tune your treatment plan to help both issues at once.
September 10