There is evidence, according to researchers at the University of Birmingham, that recurring nightmares may be an early indicator of developing the illness.
A study reveals that recurring terrible dreams and nightmares may be an early indicator of Parkinson’s disease.
The neurological disorder has been previously linked to disturbing nightmares.
Now, however, experts at the University of Birmingham believe there is evidence that recurring nightmares may be an early indicator of developing the disorder.
Dr. Abidemi Otaku, the study’s lead author, stated, “While we need to conduct additional research in this area, establishing the significance of bad dreams and nightmares may imply that older adults who have alterations in their dreams without a clear cause should seek medical treatment.”
Parkinson’s disease is a brain ailment that causes unwanted or uncontrollable movements, such as trembling, rigidity, and balance and coordination difficulties.
Typically, symptoms manifest gradually and increase over time. As the condition advances, individuals may experience difficulty walking and communicating.
The new study, published by clinical medicine, utilized data from the US Osteoporotic Fractures in Men Study, which included 3,818 men.
At the beginning of the study, none of the 67-year-old or older males had Parkinson’s disease, and they were asked how frequently they had disturbing dreams.
After the trial, participants who reported having disturbing dreams at least once per week were followed up to determine whether they were more likely to be diagnosed with the disease.
During a seven-year follow-up, 91 instances were identified, with the majority occurring within the first five years of the study.
Those having frequent nightmares over the first five years had a greater than the threefold increased risk of developing Parkinson’s disease.
Electroencephalography (EEG), which captures brain activity, will be used to investigate the biological causes of dream modifications, and the research will be expanded to include bigger groups of people from diverse backgrounds and neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s.
Parkinson’s UK’s research communications manager, Dr. Katherine Fletcher, stated: “It will be fascinating to see how this research develops as researchers begin to decipher the biological changes that are causing these changes in dream content and how this relates to the progression of neurological diseases such as Parkinson’s.
“The more researchers learn about the initial symptoms of the disease and how the brain may be altering, the closer they will be to developing more effective therapies and a cure.
This is of significant importance to the estimated 145,000 Parkinson’s patients in the United Kingdom.
