What causes microsleeps and sudden sleep episodes at 43?
Patient's Query
Hi doctor,
I am 43, and I cannot even get some sleep now. The strange thing about the whole thing is that even when I am sitting in my place of work watching television, I tend to switch off for just a few seconds, without making any effort. It appears that someone has termed this "microsleeps," and I am a little scared.
Please help.
Thank you.
Hi,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I am truly sorry you are feeling this way.
The inability to sleep, followed by brief periods of drowsiness throughout the day, must be quite disturbing when it starts to affect your productivity at work. Your symptoms do point towards microsleeping, which occurs when your brain experiences an extreme lack of rest.
These episodes might occur during the day, despite your belief that you are fully awake; they might last just a few seconds. Apart from poor sleep, microsleeping can also be a symptom of obstructive sleep apnea, narcolepsy, some medications, or other sleep-related problems.
However, as you are experiencing microsleeping, it would be best for you not to operate any vehicle or machinery until you receive an examination. I advise making an appointment with either your general practitioner or a sleep specialist as soon as possible.
Your doctor will inquire about your sleeping habits, whether you snore, daytime sleepiness, your medical history, and the medications you take, and will prescribe a sleep study if required. Until your appointment with a doctor, it would be best for you to keep a regular sleeping routine and abstain from caffeine and alcohol intake.
I hope this explanation has been clear and helpful, and I wish you continued good health and wellness.
Thank you.
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
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