One of the effects of sleep deprivation is a chronic and painful condition called Fibromyalgia.
This condition affects he joints and muscles in the body and is more prevalent in females than in males with a ratio of 9:1 according to the College of Rheumatology.
It is more prevalent in females in the 20 - 50 age groups although it is thought the symptoms are present from childhood.
Fibromyalgia affects about 3-6% of the world's population.
The pain associated with Fibromyalgia usually affects the neck, buttocks, shoulders, arms, the upper back and chest.
Pain is highly personal and one person's pain is not necessarily the same for another, however all of these in addition to the effects of sleep deprivation cannot be easy.
So far there is no cure, however the good news is that Fibromyalgia does not appear to be life threatening or a progressive disease.
The pain causes a prickling and throbbing achiness in the muscle and can be so unbearable as to cause endless chronic effects of sleep deprivation.
Fibromyalgia sufferers also report forgetfulness and other neurological problems however the major complain is the effects of sleep deprivation that individuals have to live with.
Some people also suffer from depression, anxiety, chronic fatigue and stiffness in the joints and tendons.
Other issues associated with Fibromyalgia and effects of sleep deprivation is a chronic abdominal pain often referred to as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or spastic colon.
Some people also have skin disorders, headaches, facial twitching and symptoms of hypoglycemia.
The effects of sleep deprivation can bring about stress, lack of energy, irritability and difficulty performing day to day activities.
The American Medical Association only recently recognized Fibromyalgia as a medical condition even though it has been around since the 1800s.
Although Fibromyalgia flare ups differ from those of rheumatoid arthritis, medication used by rheumatoid arthritis patients are also helpful for Fibromyalgia sufferers.
These medications include Advil, Acenomenofen (Tylenol), and Neproxine (Aleve) which are anti-inflammatory.
Massage has been helpful during flare-ups as it improves circulation and eases tension in the muscles and provide comfort.
Massage also helps to improve the effects of sleep deprivation and allow sufferers to sleep better at night.
One caution though is not to have a massage if you are on medication as this can trigger side effects from the tissues and muscle being massaged.
It is best to check with your doctor.
As long as you follow your doctor's orders, take your medications as directed and get plenty of exercise, Fibromyalgia is manageable.
In addition, you should follow proper diet and nutrition, consisting of plenty of fruits, vegetables, drink plenty of water and avoid foods that can cause flare-ups especially chemically treated or processed foods.
Even though the brain is smart, it can be trained enough to induce sleep and eliminate the effects of sleep deprivation.
People with fibromyalgia have to watch out for other conditions which can occur due to the amount of constant pain and the effects of sleep deprivation.
Psychological issues, such as agitation, panic attacks, irritability, hostility, aggressiveness, impulsivity and extreme hyperactivity and thoughts of suicide, are some of the things which caregivers should be aware of.