There are several types of Influenza infection, and H3N2 is one of its strains. Talking about the illness itself, in recent research and patients reported with H1N1 disease, it has been found to affect sleep patterns. Many patients complain of sleeplessness, unnecessary fatigue, and drowsiness with the inability to sleep. A section of medical experts believes that the wake-sleep issues might be the immune response caused by a virus, and many doctors claim that it might be due to excessive stress, fatigue and anxiety caused by a virus. Dr Bandana Mishra, HOD & Senior Consultant, Pulmonology, Sanar International Hospitals, Gurugram,explains how this virus leads to insomnia.
The tests show the association of narcolepsy with influenza. An experiment was done on H1N1-infected mice, and they developed disturbed sleep patterns. Basically, in our brain, the sleep-wake regulating neural system is widely affected by narcolepsy. The mice were found unable to fall asleep naturally, as the outcome says the infection might act the same way, resulting in disturbed sleep.
Returning to the initial rapid COVID-19 infection spread, we used to hear the popular term "Coronasomnia", which was characterised by the sleeplessness caused by COVID-19 infection. Similar patterns are being reported in the H3N2 outbreak. Hence, it can be said that the patient may experience insomnia with such an infection. Still, the more significant question arises: is it that severe, or can it be resolved with a particular medication? So, we all need to be aware, well-informed, and patient in understanding and getting over this problem.
Getting out of it and feeling healthy again is not a one-day task.
Specific symptoms may present even for months. Hence, be regular with medicine, maintain hygiene, eat healthily, take prescribed medication, follow medical experts' advice and have patience. Complete recovery may take time; this sleeplessness may disturb you, but the issue can be resolved.
