Sleep Deprivation and Physiological Responses. A Case Report

• Main Authors: Marinella Coco, Andrea Buscemi, Maria Guarnera, Rosamaria La Paglia, Valentina Perciavalle, Donatella Di Corrado
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2019-04-01
• Series: Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology
• Subjects: sleep deprivation; stress; exercise; daytime fatigue; physical health; cortisol
• Online Access: https://www.mdpi.com/2411-5142/4/2/17

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of 72-h sleep deprivation on normal daily activities (work, family, and sports), and to investigate whether sleep can be chronically reduced without dangerous consequences. Methods: The participant in this study was an adult male (age 41 years; mass 69 kg; height 173 cm). During the 72 h, data were collected every 6 h, involving a baseline (pre-deprivation). We monitored various parameters: Oxidative Stress (D-Rom and Bap test), Psychological Responses (test POMS and Measure of Global Stress), Metabolic expenditure (kJ) using a metabolic holter, EEG records, Cortisol, and Catecholamines level. Results: An interesting result was observed in the post-test phase, when a brief moment of deep sleep and total absence of a very deep sleep occurred, while an almost normal condition occurred in the pre-test sleep. Conclusion: During the 72-h sleep deprivation, no psycho-physiological stress was recorded. The participant has remained within the threshold of well-being. Only a peak was recorded during the 66th hour, but it was within the wellness threshold.