Symptom 8: Falling out of Bed
Next on our list is a symptom that, while seemingly straightforward, carries significant implications – falling out of bed. As benign as this might sound, it can be a significant source of concern in the context of RBD.
In normal circumstances, our bodies have mechanisms in place to prevent us from rolling off the bed while asleep. However, in RBD, these safety measures are overridden by the dream enactment behaviors. Individuals might unknowingly propel themselves out of bed in response to their dreams, resulting in falls.
These falls aren’t just startling; they can also lead to injuries. From minor bruises to severe fractures, the outcomes can vary widely and are often unpredictable. This uncertainty adds an additional layer of stress to the already distressing symptomatology of RBD. (8)
