Helping You Sleep Better and Understand Mood & Mind Changes in Neurological Conditions
Hello, I’m Dr. Mitesh Chandarana, a neurologist and movement disorder specialist. Many of my patients with Parkinson’s disease, dystonia, or tremors also suffer from sleep problems and behaviour changes. These issues may not be as visible as tremors or stiffness — but they affect life just as much.
In my clinic, I give equal importance to sleep and emotional health. Because when you sleep better and feel emotionally balanced, your recovery and quality of life also improve.
What Are Sleep Problems in Neurological Disorders?
Sleep problems are very common in patients with Parkinson’s and other brain conditions. These may include:
1. RBD (REM Sleep Behaviour Disorder)
In RBD, you act out your dreams while sleeping. You may shout, kick, punch, or fall from bed. This is more common in Parkinson’s and can even be an early sign.
2. RLS (Restless Legs Syndrome)
This causes an uncontrollable urge to move your legs when you’re sitting or lying down — especially at night. It affects sleep and makes you feel tired during the day.
3. Insomnia
Some patients find it hard to fall asleep or stay asleep, leading to tiredness and mood changes.
4. Excessive Daytime Sleepiness
You may feel sleepy during the day, even after a full night’s sleep.
5. Sleep Apnea (in selected cases)
Snoring with interrupted breathing at night, which lowers sleep quality and oxygen levels.
What Are Behavioural and Emotional Changes in Neurological Conditions?
The brain controls not just movement, but also mood, memory, and emotions. Patients may experience:
- Depression or lack of interest
- Anxiety or panic attacks
- Confusion or memory loss
- Anger, irritation, or mood swings
- Hallucinations or talking to oneself
- Impulse control problems (gambling, shopping, etc. in Parkinson’s)
- Social withdrawal
These are part of the disease — not your fault.
What Do I Check in Sleep & Behavioural Neurology Evaluations?
When you visit me, I ask questions like:
- How well do you sleep?
- Do you wake up often?
- Does your partner say you move or shout during sleep?
- Are you feeling low, anxious, or fearful?
- Do you forget things easily?
- Are you seeing or hearing things others don’t?
Then, I examine your brain and nervous system and may do:
- Sleep history and diary
- Neuropsychological tests (for memory and behavior)
- Blood tests (for vitamin B12, thyroid, iron levels, etc.)
- Sleep study (polysomnography) – if needed for RBD or apnea
How I Treat Sleep and Behavioural Problems
I offer a step-by-step, personalized approach based on your condition.
1. Medicine Adjustments
Some Parkinson’s medicines can disturb sleep or cause hallucinations. I adjust doses or change timing to reduce side effects.
2. Sleep Hygiene and Natural Support
I give simple tips like:
- Avoid screens before bed
- Fix your sleep and wake time
- Avoid caffeine and large meals at night
- Get sunlight in the morning
These improve sleep naturally.
3. Oral Medicines for Sleep and Mood
If needed, I may prescribe:
- Medicines for better sleep
- Medicines for anxiety or depression
- Drugs that control dreams or reduce nighttime movements
All medicines are chosen carefully, based on age, condition, and other health problems.
4. Behavioral Therapy & Family Support
I also guide families on:
- How to manage memory loss or personality changes
- How to support without frustration
- When to consider caregiver help
Why Is This Important?
When patients don’t sleep well or feel sad, even their movement symptoms get worse.
That’s why as a sleep disorder neurologist, I always ask about:
- Your sleep
- Your thoughts
- Your feelings
Because Parkinson’s, dystonia, and other disorders affect both body and mind — and both need healing.
Who Should Visit Me for Sleep or Behaviour Issues?
Please come for a consultation if:
- You or your family notices screaming or punching during sleep
- You move your legs constantly at night
- You have trouble sleeping or staying asleep
- You feel tired, low, or anxious during the day
- You notice hallucinations or memory changes
- You are acting different than before but don’t know why
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. I only have tremors. Why are you asking about sleep?
Because tremors and poor sleep are often connected — both are signs of a movement disorder.
Q2. My family says I’m moody. Can that be from Parkinson’s?
Yes. Mood changes are common in Parkinson’s and related conditions. It’s not your fault — it’s the disease.
Q3. Is acting out dreams dangerous?
It can be. People with RBD may hurt themselves or others in sleep. But it is treatable with simple medicines.
Q4. Can you help without sleeping pills?
Yes. Many times, we fix sleep with routine, safe medicines, or adjusting your current tablets.
Q5. My memory is fading — do I need scans?
Maybe. But first, I do a clinical test to see if it’s true memory loss or just attention problem. Scans are needed only in selected cases.
Let’s Improve Your Sleep and Mind Together
Don’t ignore sleep or mood changes — they are real, treatable, and important for brain health.
If you or your loved one has trouble sleeping, feeling low, or strange behavior changes — come talk to me.
Book Your Consultation Now
📞 Call: 8866843843
📍 Medisquare Superspeciality Hospital, Ahmedabad
