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Published on: 7/21/2026

Does REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD) increase the risk of developing Parkinson's disease?

Yoshinori Abe

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Research shows a strong link between REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD) and Parkinson's disease. People diagnosed with RBD—a condition where individuals physically act out vivid dreams during sleep—have a significantly higher risk of developing Parkinson's disease later in life. Studies suggest that more than 80% of people with idiopathic RBD may eventually develop a neurodegenerative disorder such as Parkinson's, dementia with Lewy bodies, or multiple system atrophy. RBD is often considered an early warning sign, sometimes appearing years or even decades before motor symptoms emerge.

Because early detection can meaningfully impact long-term outcomes, it's worth taking your symptoms seriously. If you're experiencing sleep disturbances, unusual movements during sleep, or other unexplained changes, a free, instant, online symptom check can help you better understand what may be going on and guide your next steps toward the right care.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/20/2026

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Important Next Steps

Discover if RBD signals Parkinson’s diseaseLearn what your RBD symptoms meanSee if RBD needs urgent careFind OTC options for RBD symptomsFind a doctor for RBD careDiscover home remedies for RBD symptomsUnderstand if RBD could mean Parkinson’s

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Explanation

REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD) is a condition where people act out their dreams during sleep. Research shows that people with RBD have a higher chance of developing Parkinson's disease in the future.

Key Points:

  1. Link to Parkinson's: Studies indicate that RBD might be an early sign of Parkinson's disease. This means that people with RBD could develop Parkinson's disease years later.
  2. Understanding RBD: In RBD, the brain does not properly stop the body from moving during dreams, leading to physical actions. This is different from normal REM sleep, where the body is usually still.
  3. Importance of Monitoring: If someone has RBD, it is important for them to be monitored over time, as they may show other signs of Parkinson's disease or related conditions.

In conclusion, while not everyone with RBD will develop Parkinson's disease, the risk is higher compared to those without RBD. If you're experiencing unusual movements during sleep or other concerning symptoms, consider taking a free symptom checker test to help you better understand your condition before speaking with your healthcare provider about regular monitoring.

(References)

  • Postuma RB. (2014). Prodromal Parkinson's disease--using REM sleep behavior .... Parkinsonism & related disorders, 24262156.

  • Postuma RB, Gagnon JF, & Montplaisir J. (2013). Rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder as a .... Sleep medicine, 23058689.

  • Postuma RB, Iranzo A, Hu M, Högl B, Boeve BF, Manni R, et al. (2019). Risk and predictors of dementia and parkinsonism in .... Brain : a journal of neurology, 30789229.

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