What Is Microsleep – Have you ever found yourself nodding off only to jerk awake suddenly after pulling an all-nighter at work or school? If so, chances are you have experienced microsleep.
What Is Microsleep? The World’s Shortest Nap.
Microsleep is a short burst of sleep that usually occurs when we are in our most sleep-deprived state. These instant naps often happen when your eyes are open, and can last anywhere from 15 to 120 seconds.
Microsleep doesn’t fall under either of the two primary stages of sleep known as non-rapid eye movement (NREM sleep) and rapid eye movement (REM sleep).
What Is Microsleep – Involuntary Sleep
Microsleep can happen to anyone, and while it’s near impossible to predict an when it will happen, drowsiness, fatigue and sleep debt are usually precursors to an episode. If you catch yourself blinking rapidly as not to fall asleep, you might be on the verge of microsleep.
In some instances, you may be unaware that you’ve just had an episode of microsleep.
What Is Microsleep – Sleep Deprivation
The American Academy of Sleep Medicine estimates that 20% of the adult population suffers from sleep deprivation for various reasons and in different degrees.
Repetitive activities [1] like machine work and driving increase the likelihood of having an episode of microsleep. You can reduce your chance of experiencing microsleep by eliminating sleep deprivation.
To prevent sleep deprivation, start by improving the quality of your sleep by investing in a sleep system that delivers the peaceful darkness and cool comfort you need for deep, uninterrupted slumber.
What Is Microsleep – Medical Conditions
In some cases, microsleeps can be attributed to specific conditions that require diagnoses, such as narcolepsy or sleep apnea.
Individuals with sleep apnea are more likely to experience interrupted sleep and are at higher risk for episodes of microsleep due to sleep deprivation while those who suffer from narcolepsy can experience episodes of microsleep as a symptom of their condition.
Preventing Microsleep
The first step to prevention is understanding the signs.
You’re more likely to experience microsleep if:
- You feel drowsy
- You are having difficulty keeping your eyes open
- Your head is nodding and then jerking back
- You are frequently and slowly blinking your eyes
- You are staring, or your thoughts are wandering
- You are unable to recall what has just happened a minute or so ago
Microsleep, for the most part, is harmless but sleep deprivation can be detrimental to your wellbeing. For a better night’s sleep, try the new Tomorrow hybrid mattress.
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What Is Mircosleep Resources;
[1] AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety; How To Avoid Drowsy Driving, 2012.