COVID-19 and Central Nervous System Hypersomnias
Cristina Frange1, Giuliano Paz de Oliveira1,2, Fernando Morgadinho Santos Coelho1,3
1Departamento de Neurologia e Neurocirurgia, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, SP São Paulo, Brazil.
Current Sleep Medicine Reports
|August 1, 2022
Summary
Central nervous system hypersomnias may be triggered by COVID-19 infection or vaccination. While no consensus exists, some studies report increased daytime sleepiness and worsened sleep disorders post-vaccination or infection.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Sleep Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Central nervous system (CNS) hypersomnias can be triggered by external factors like infections and vaccinations.
- The COVID-19 pandemic spurred rapid vaccine development and widespread social changes (lockdowns, quarantine).
- These changes impacted sleep patterns and potentially exacerbated hypersomnias.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent literature (past 2 years) on CNS hypersomnias.
- To examine the role of COVID-19 infection, vaccination, and associated lifestyle changes in triggering or worsening hypersomnias.
- To discuss potential pathophysiological mechanisms.
Main Methods:
- Narrative review of scientific literature.
- Focus on studies published within the last two years.
- Analysis of reported associations between COVID-19, vaccination, and hypersomnias.
Main Results:
- No definitive consensus on hypersomnia association with COVID-19 infection or vaccination.
- Some reports indicate a temporary increase in excessive daytime sleepiness post-vaccination.
- Exacerbation of conditions like Kleine-Levin syndrome, hypersomnia, and narcolepsy noted in case reports.
- Varied effects on sleep duration and quality; delayed sleep onset was common.
Conclusions:
- The relationship between COVID-19, vaccination, and hypersomnias is complex and requires further investigation.
- Potential pathophysiological links between the virus, vaccine, and sleep disturbances are hypothesized.
- Social isolation and quarantine effects on circadian rhythms may contribute to hypersomnia symptoms.
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