Strokecast

Neurofatigue describes the condition of profound tiredness common to stroke survivors, TBI survivors, and others with brain injuries or neurological conditions. It is significantly different from the levels of exhaustion other people experience due to lack of sleep or overwork. The brain does much of its repair work while we sleep. It’s like shutting down a freeway overnight for construction. It’s not because the freeway is lazy. It’s because that work can be done only when there are no cars on it. It’s the same with the brain. That’s why it’s normal — and healthy — for stroke survivors to sleep 8, 12, or even 18 hours a day. Especially in the early months. Neurofatigue can continue to strike months and years down the road. When we’re sick, inebriated, overworked, acquiring (or re-acquiring) skills, or just not getting another sleep, it can strike. This week, I explore neurofatigue, why it happens, and my own relationship with my favorite frenemy — sleep. Hack of the Week Jan Douglas shared her strategy for g