[23F] Experiencing Insomnia and Food Aversions

Patient Description

A 23-year-old female reports difficulty sleeping, sometimes feeling paralyzed upon closing her eyes, and often staying awake for over 24 hours followed by 4-6 hours of sleep. She uses a fan for white noise, which helps her sleep, and watches TV shows before bedtime. Additionally, she has aversions to most foods based on their taste, smell, texture, and appearance, which can make her feel sick, but she does not experience weight loss or nutritional deficiencies. The patient has ADD but is not currently on any medications and has no known allergies or adverse reactions to medications.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are some possibilities:

  • Selective Eating Disorder (SED), also known as Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID): This is a type of eating disorder where the consumption of certain foods is limited based on the food's taste, smell, texture, or appearance. People with SED/ARFID may find certain foods gross and may feel sick when they try to eat them. However, they do not have any distress or concern about their body shape or size, unlike those with other eating disorders like anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa.

  • Insomnia: This is a sleep disorder that can make it hard to fall asleep, hard to stay asleep, or cause you to wake up too early and not be able to get back to sleep. You may still feel tired when you wake up. Insomnia can sap not only your energy level and mood but also your health, work performance and quality of life.

  • Sleep Paralysis: This is a feeling of being conscious but unable to move. It occurs when a person passes between stages of wakefulness and sleep. During these transitions, you may be unable to move or speak for a few seconds up to a couple of minutes. Some people may also feel pressure or a sense of choking.

What you can do

  1. Consult a healthcare professional: It's important to discuss these symptoms with a healthcare provider. They can provide a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.

  2. Dietary changes: If you're finding it hard to eat a variety of foods, you might find it helpful to work with a dietitian. They can help you find nutritious foods that you find palatable and can tolerate.

  3. Sleep hygiene: Good sleep habits, also called sleep hygiene, can help you get a good night's sleep and beat insomnia. Here are some simple tips:

    • Stick to a sleep schedule
    • Pay attention to what you eat and drink
    • Create a restful environment
    • Limit daytime naps
    • Include physical activity in your daily routine
    • Manage worries

What you should look out for

  • If you notice any significant weight loss, it's important to seek medical attention immediately.
  • If your sleep problems persist or get worse, it would be a good idea to consult a healthcare provider.
  • If you notice any other new symptoms, or if your current symptoms worsen, you should also seek medical advice.

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate and helpful health information, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, testing, and care recommendations.

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8 mo ago

People Also Ask

What is sleep paralysis and how can it be managed?

Sleep paralysis is a temporary inability to move or speak while falling asleep or upon waking. It can be managed by improving sleep hygiene, reducing stress, and ensuring a regular sleep schedule. If it persists, consulting a healthcare provider is recommended.

What are some strategies to improve sleep hygiene for better sleep?

Improving sleep hygiene involves maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, creating a restful environment, avoiding caffeine and heavy meals before bedtime, limiting screen time, and incorporating physical activity into your daily routine.

What is Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) and how is it different from other eating disorders?

ARFID is an eating disorder characterized by the avoidance of certain foods based on sensory characteristics like taste, smell, or texture, without concerns about body image. It differs from disorders like anorexia or bulimia, which involve body image issues.

How can someone with ADD manage their symptoms without medication?

Managing ADD without medication can include behavioral therapy, organizational strategies, regular exercise, a balanced diet, and mindfulness practices. Consulting a healthcare provider for personalized strategies is also beneficial.

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