Victoria Regional Conference: Sleep and Parkinson's (2016)

Dr. Jason Valerio delivered a talk focusing on sleep issues prevalent in Parkinson's disease and the crucial management of sleep disorders. The session detailed various sleep problems associated with Parkinson's, including circadian rhythm sleep-wake dysfunction, insomnia, excessive daytime sleepiness, restless leg syndrome, and obstructive sleep apnea. Strategies to address insomnia and excessive daytime sleepiness, along with tips for enhancing sleep hygiene, were provided.

Covering three distinct sleep disorders, namely REM behaviour disorder (RBD), restless leg syndrome (RLS), and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), the session described their characteristics and associated risks. RBD's link to pre-Parkinson's symptoms, RLS's manifestation primarily at night, and OSA's interruptions in breathing during sleep were highlighted. Treatment options ranged from medication to safety measures and CPAP therapy.

Additionally, the talk reiterated the importance of cognitive behavioural therapy and proper sleep hygiene for managing insomnia, emphasized safety measures for behaviour disorder, and suggested medication adjustments for restless leg syndrome. It stressed the need to consider obstructive sleep apnea, especially if symptoms like heavy snoring or breathing pauses were present, outlining multiple available management options.

**Disclaimer: These sessions are designed to provide general education and are not intended for individual advice and/or clinical care. The information conveyed in this recording was accurate at the time of presentation.**