What is the term for the sleep disorder where individuals physically act out their dreams?

The term for the sleep disorder where individuals physically act out their dreams is REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD). This condition occurs during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, a phase of sleep characterized by vivid dreaming and temporary muscle paralysis. In individuals with RBD, this paralysis is absent or incomplete, allowing them to enact their dreams. As a result, these individuals may move, speak, or even exhibit aggressive behaviors while being unaware of their actions.

RBD is distinct from other disorders like sleepwalking, which occurs during non-REM sleep, and night terrors, which typically involve sudden awakening with extreme fear and confusion, often without vivid dreams. Idiopathic hypersomnia is characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness and does not involve the physical expression of dreams. Understanding these differences helps in accurately identifying and treating sleep disorders.