One study found that experiencing frequent bad dreams and nightmares could be an early sign of Parkinson’s disease.
Previous distressing dreams were associated with mental illness.
But now, experts from the University of Birmingham say there is evidence that frequent bad dreams could be an early warning sign of a developing condition.
Lead author Dr Abidemi Otaku said: “While we need to conduct further research in this area, determining the significance of bad dreams and nightmares could indicate that people experience experiencing changes to their dreams as they age – without any obvious triggers – should see a doctor. advice.”
Parkinson’s disease is a brain disorder that causes involuntary or uncontrolled movements, such as shaking, stiffness, and difficulty with balance and coordination.
Symptoms usually begin gradually and worsen over time. As the disease progresses, people may have difficulty walking and talking.
The new study – published by eClinicalMedicine – used data from 3,818 men from the US Men’s Fracture Study.
None of the men – aged 67 or older – had Parkinson’s at the start of the study and were asked how often they had bad dreams.
Those who reported having distressing dreams at least once a week were then followed up at the end of the study to see if they were more likely to be diagnosed with the disease.
During the 7-year follow-up, 91 cases were diagnosed, most within the first 5 years of the study.
The researchers also found that people who had frequent nightmares during the first five years were three times more likely to develop Parkinson’s disease.
Now, they plan to use an electroencephalogram (EEG) – a recording of brain activity – to look at biological reasons for changes in dreams – and extend the study to larger groups including: people of both sexes and of different backgrounds, and other neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s.
Dr Katherine Fletcher, director of research communications at Parkinson’s UK, said: “It will be interesting to see how this research progresses as researchers begin to explore the biological changes that cause these changes. this change to dream content and how this is linked to the progression of neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s.
“The more we know about the earliest signs of a condition and how the brain can change, the more research will be needed to find better treatments and cures.
“This has important implications for the estimated 145,000 people currently diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in the UK.”
