Some people act out their dreams. They may kick or yell while asleep. This condition is called REM sleep behavior disorder or RBD. Sleep problems, including RBD, are common with Parkinson's.
Groundbreaking Study Needs People with RBD
RBD can be one of the first symptoms of Parkinson's, occurring years before a diagnosis. Smell loss can be another early sign. Our study, the Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI), is examining risk factors to inform methods of treating and preventing disease.
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Age 40 and Up with RBD
- People who do NOT have Parkinson's disease.
If you meet the above criteria, you can play an important role in the study. Your first step is to take a free scratch-and-sniff test.
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Anyone Age 18+ with RBD
- May or may not have Parkinson's disease.
If you meet the above criteria, you can share valuable data in the study's online platform. Surveys are sent to your inbox.
Know Your Risk for Parkinson's: What's the connection between sleep and brain disease?
Frequently Asked Questions
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What Is REM sleep behavior disorder?
Normally when we dream, our brain prevents our muscles from moving. In some, these brain signals don’t work properly, and a person moves while asleep. This is REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD). People with RBD often have very active dreams in which they’re playing sports, running, or being chased or attacked. In response to these vivid dreams, people can kick, punch, yell, sit up, or even get out of bed - all while asleep.
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How is RBD connected to Parkinson's?
RBD is a risk factor for Parkinson's and other brain diseases. Not everyone with RBD gets Parkinson’s disease. But in some people, RBD is one of the earliest symptoms of Parkinson's.
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How is smell loss connected to Parkinson's?
Like RBD, ongoing smell loss can indicate risk for Parkinson's disease. Many people with Parkinson’s report having lost their sense of smell years or even decades before their diagnosis. This condition is called hyposmia.
Not everyone with smell loss will develop a brain disease. Researchers are studying the link between smell loss and brain health to learn more about Parkinson's risk.
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What is the PPMI study?
The Parkinson's Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI) is a landmark study sponsored by The Michael J. Fox Foundation. PPMI aims to better understand and measure Parkinson's disease, including its earliest stages before movement symptoms begin. Examining Parkinson's risk factors like RBD can provide information that could lead to new treatments.
Through PPMI, scientists also could learn more about the biology and experience of RBD.
Have questions about joining the study? Call 866-525-PPMI or email ppmistudy@michaeljfox.org to speak with the team.
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I do not have an official RBD diagnosis. Can I still participate in PPMI?
Yes, you can still participate in PPMI. An official RBD diagnosis is not required. If you are experiencing RBD symptoms, such as punching, kicking, or yelling while you are asleep, you are invited to join the study.
Resources to Learn More
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Watch a Video
In this Ask the MD video, Rachel Dolhun, MD, speaks with a couple about their experience with RBD.
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Download a Guide
In this guide, we explain three things to know about Parkinson’s risk if you or a loved one act out dreams.
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View a Webinar
In this webinar, expert panelists discuss common sleep problems and tips for managing them.
"I am hopeful that my participation in studies like PPMI can serve as my contribution to this vitally needed research and can hopefully over time lead to true scientifically proven cures and prevention strategies.”
Brian Duggan, 67, Mill Valley, CA
Lives with RBD
Are you a PPMI study site looking to request promotional materials? Email joinppmi@michaeljfox.org.
If you were directed here by your sleep doctor, please contact them for a direct referral to join the PPMI study.
