Extreme Sleep Loss
People who suffer from extreme sleep loss have many psychological symptoms. They may experience hallucinations, and global paranoia, and have difficulties regulating their emotions. Studies have even shown that this type of deprivation is linked with depression, schizophrenia, and menopause. Luckily, treatments for extreme sleep loss exist. In addition to providing relief from the physical symptoms, treatment can also help the sufferer cope with the psychological consequences of extreme sleep loss.
To understand the psychological effects of extreme sleep loss, we can start with the history of this condition. Researchers believe that prolonged sleep deprivation can be harmful to our health and is unethical today. Sleep deprivation for more than 48 hours is unethical, but the effects of sleep deprivation are similar in healthy and unhealthy people. A systematic review of historical studies shows that people who have suffered from extreme sleep loss have increased sensitivity to pain, increased risk of diseases, and have heightened stomach pain.
The Scary After Effect Of Extreme Sleep Loss
Lack of sleep has many negative effects, including headaches, lack of focus, and emotional problems. Some people even experience hallucinations, paranoia, and delusions. Fortunately, lack of sleep does not kill you, according to medical experts. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, sleep deprivation isn’t as harmful as many people think. Fortunately, there are ways to cope with the effects of sleep deprivation and prevent them from ruining your life.
Hallucinations
People who experience sleep deprivation or insomnia may have nightmares or hallucinations. They may develop over time, affecting all five senses. While the exact mechanism of sleep deprivation is still unclear, it’s generally thought that a lack of sleep will trigger hallucinations. Hallucinations can be auditory, tactile, visual, or gustatory. Auditory hallucinations are the most common.
Paranoia
Paranoia is the persistent feeling of distrust. While paranoia is not a diagnosis in and of itself, it often signals an underlying health issue. Healthcare providers collect your medical history and may order lab tests to confirm the physical cause of your paranoia. If you experience paranoia consistently, seek professional medical advice. In some cases, it is a symptom of a mental health condition, such as schizophrenia.
Depersonalization
Depersonalization disorder is a frightening after-effect of extreme sleep loss. People who are suffering from DP often feel very tired the next day, despite having slept for a solid eight hours the night before. This after-effect is the brain’s response to a perceived trauma. It’s designed as a temporary defensive measure, but DP can persist. Depersonalization disorder is no different than any other nightmare. You’ll have dreams about DP if you’ve been thinking about it all day, and those nightmares will likely stop as soon as the associated stress stops.
Psychosis
Sleep loss can trigger psychotic symptoms in some people. For example, historical texts describe how tortured witchcraft suspects were often subjected to sleep deprivation, which subsequently resulted in their development of psychosis. Sleep deprivation can also lead to mood swings, hallucinations, and disordered thinking. However, many people are unlikely to experience prolonged psychosis due to extreme sleep loss.
Accidents
Whether you work shifts or you’re on a long car trip, accidents caused by driver sleepiness are common. According to the National Sleep Foundation, 60% of adults have driven drowsy or fallen asleep behind the wheel at some point in their lives. The sad part is that many of these sleep-related driving situations end tragically. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that 100,000 crashes caused by driver sleepiness occur each year, though more recent data suggests that the true number is likely even higher.
Tips To Get Rid Of Extreme Sleep Loss
Discuss With Your Care Provider
If you’re experiencing excessive sleep loss, you should first discuss your sleep habits with your primary care provider. You may be suffering from a more serious health problem. If so, you should consider seeking professional help, such as at the Penn Sleep Center, which offers specialized programs for treating sleep disorders. In some cases, sleep problems may be caused by a combination of causes, including physical illness and certain medications. Make sure to follow your physician’s instructions when taking these medications.
ASMR
ASMR is a phenomenon that has been gaining popularity in recent years. It is a type of sound that is said to help people relax and fall asleep. If you are someone who struggles with insomnia, or just wants to find a more relaxing way to wind down at night, ASMR might be worth checking out.
There are a variety of ways to experience ASMR. Some people listen to ASMR audio recordings, others watch ASMR videos, and still others use ASMR triggers to create their own experiences.
Avoid Sugary Foods
If you’re having trouble falling asleep, you might be suffering from insomnia. Avoid sugary foods and refined carbohydrates, which can cause you to wake up throughout the night. Also, avoid eating large meals and spicy foods at least three hours before bed. Additionally, limit the number of liquids you drink throughout the day to limit waking up frequently to go to the bathroom. If you find that your sleep loss is severe, it’s best to consult a doctor immediately.
Go To Bed At The Same Time
Another important tip to overcome insomnia is to go to bed at the same time every night. Many people have difficulty falling asleep at night and are also unable to wake up early in the morning. It can cause serious health problems. A doctor can prescribe medication, but you may want to try a few alternative therapies. Spend some time in the outdoors during the day, or take a bath before bed. Whatever you do, try to make your bedtime ritual as relaxing as possible. If you’re unable to sleep, try distracting yourself with something else. Try taking a nap, but do it for no more than 20 minutes.
Avoid Alcohol, Caffeine Etc
Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and nicotine, as these can interfere with your sleep. Also, avoid napping later than three p.m., as the body needs more time to get ready for sleep. If you still have trouble falling asleep, try a relaxing routine before bed, such as a warm bath, some soft music, or reading a book. If you continue to have difficulty sleeping, consult your doctor to determine if there is a medical reason.
Also Read: What Is Deep Sleep And How Can I Get More Of It?
In Conclusion
A study suggests that severe sleep loss may increase your risk for cardiovascular disease. Researchers have also shown that extreme sleep loss may lower the levels of certain immune-related genes. These genes include the plasmolysis protein, which makes up 50% of the myelin, as well as CD9, a membrane protein found in the mature myelin sheath. Chronic sleep loss has also been linked to a generalized inflammatory response in the brain. While there are no conclusive findings, further research is needed to understand the exact effects of extreme sleep loss on the cellular membranes and how it affects myelin.