[livingwith]

I can’t seem to find the right description for some mysterious movements that I have made in my sleep over the last 2 weeks.
My partner has told me how I’ve been rolling backwards and forward repeatedly. He’s only been aware of it because either I’ve been shaking the bed in the process or he’s got in my way and I’ve subsequently elbowed him or kicked him. This has happened at least 5 times over the last 2 weeks. In the morning I have no recollection and seem t...Read the full article

[mstewart35]

Wow! This is so like what happens with my partner. I was beginning to think he was the only one like this. I assume it is symptoms of REM Behavior Disorder. Now and then he has bad nights when he periodically seems to be trying to beat up the bed, or is flopping around violently like a dolphin. He even winds up flipping himself out of the bed sometimes, hurting himself against the bedside furniture. More frequently, he rolls and kicks like you do. He elbows me in the small of the back or drops his fist on my face or kicks me on the legs and feet. I feel lucky neither of us has been seriously hurt yet.

I don't remember when it started, but it has been going on for at least a year, and it has gotten worse lately. Unlike you, he smokes heavily and drinks. However, I don't know that it affects his sleep behavior. I know that he has had extremely traumatic events in his life, and he may have experienced post-traumatic stress disorder.

I can't always sleep with him. The only thing I can think to do is get a separate bed or put a barrier between us. He also needs a soft barrier on his side to prevent him falling out of the bed.

[ronvan]

Just been diagnosed with RBD. During the past year have had episodes of kicking, pulling hair, and grabbing my wife around her neck. Very scary for her and feeling of helplessness on my part. I have been taking the medication supplied for 2 days, seems to have helped. Now my wife says it seems as if my body is tied down when I have an attack, no more flailing. One of the side effects of the medication is constantly feeling tired and sleepy. But it gives me peace of mind knowing that I will not hurt my wife.