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Short Sleeper Syndrome is a rare genetic condition where individuals need only 4 to 6 hours of sleep and feel well-rested.
This condition is not caused by stress, anxiety, or poor sleep habits. It is believed to be a result of how their bodies are wired. (Representative image: Getty)
Short Sleeper Syndrome (SSS) is a rare sleep condition where people naturally need much less sleep than others. While most adults need 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night, people with SSS feel well-rested with just 4 to 6 hours—or even less. They wake up feeling alert and energetic, without needing naps or feeling tired during the day.
This condition is not caused by stress, anxiety, or poor sleep habits. It is believed to be a result of how their bodies are wired. People with this condition are often referred to as natural short sleepers.
Short Sleeper Syndrome: Is It Rare or More Common Than You Think?
SSS is quite rare, but the exact number of people with this condition is still unknown. Many factors can affect how much sleep a person gets, so it can be hard to identify true cases.
Not everyone who sleeps less than 6 hours has SSS; only those who do so regularly and still feel completely fine during the day.
Short Sleeper Syndrome: What Really Causes It?
The exact cause of SSS isn’t fully known. However, researchers believe it may be linked to genetics.
In some cases, a change or mutation in a gene called DEC2 has been found in people who naturally sleep less. This gene may affect the body’s internal clock and how it controls sleep.
Short Sleeper Syndrome: Common Signs
The main sign of SSS is the ability to sleep for fewer hours and still feel fine. Here are some key symptoms:
- Sleeping for less than 6 hours every night.
- No daytime sleepiness or tiredness.
- Normal energy levels and alertness throughout the day.
- Regular ability to focus, work, and function without problems.
Short Sleeper Syndrome: What Are the Effects?
At first, SSS might seem like a helpful trait, since it gives more waking hours in a day. But there can be some downsides too.
- Risk of hidden sleep issues: Even if someone feels fine, their body might still miss out on important rest.
- Strain on relationships: People with SSS may wake up much earlier than others, which can lead to differences in schedules or routines.
- Long-term health concerns: Research shows that not getting enough sleep over time may affect heart health, memory, immune strength, and more.
About the Author
Nishad Thaivalappil is a Lifestyle and Entertainment Journalist with almost a decade-long odyssey in the realms of movies, music, culture, food, and travel. He leads the Lifestyle desk at News18.com. Besides ha…Read More
Nishad Thaivalappil is a Lifestyle and Entertainment Journalist with almost a decade-long odyssey in the realms of movies, music, culture, food, and travel. He leads the Lifestyle desk at News18.com. Besides ha… Read More
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