Symptom 7: Sleep Disorders
Sleep disorders are another debilitating symptom of Encephalitis Lethargica. While excessive sleepiness is the most notorious symptom, other sleep issues can also plague those affected by this condition.
One such sleep disorder is insomnia. Despite the overwhelming desire to sleep, some individuals may find it challenging to fall asleep or stay asleep. This can result in a paradoxical situation where the person is exhausted but unable to sleep, leading to further fatigue and impairing their ability to function during the day.
Another common sleep-related symptom is sleep apnea. This disorder is characterized by periodic pauses in breathing during sleep, resulting in disrupted sleep and daytime sleepiness. Besides making restful sleep a struggle, sleep apnea can lead to serious health problems, such as hypertension and heart disease, if left untreated.
Nightmares and night terrors can also torment those with Encephalitis Lethargica. These vivid, disturbing dreams can jolt the individual awake and make them reluctant to return to sleep. This can lead to a cycle of fear and sleep deprivation, further deteriorating the person’s health and well-being.(7)
