Understanding Microsleep: Why Brain Cells 'Shut Down' While Driving

Jakarta, While driving, fatigue can cause some brain cells to "fall asleep" momentarily. The driver may not even realize it, but in a fraction of a second, it can lead to a fatal accident.

In such conditions, a driver may not feel drowsy at all. The perception of sleepiness can sometimes be overridden by adrenaline, which rises during the excitement of driving. Especially on busy holiday routes, the heavy flow of traffic presents its own challenge as drivers jostle to get ahead.

However, the brain has its limits. Sleep deprivation and fatigue will cause some brain cells to stop functioning before a person even feels sleepy. This can result in reduced concentration, or even trigger a brief episode of sleep known as microsleep.

Because it lasts only a very brief moment — typically no more than 10 seconds — a microsleep episode usually goes unnoticed. It is only after this brief sleep phase ends that a person often experiences a sensation of a sharp jerk of the heador a sudden strong jolt of the head, as reported by BBC.

Although brief, microsleep can be fatal, especially while driving. At high speeds, losing consciousness for just a few seconds is enough for a vehicle to travel hundreds of meters completely out of control.

Microsleep is not uncommon among drivers. A study conducted at RS Paru Persahabatan revealed that this sleep disorder is prevalent among taxi drivers who are obese. Their excess weight causes obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which reduces sleep quality and makes them more vulnerable to microsleep episodes.

How can you avoid microsleep? There is no alternative — getting adequate sleep is the primary solution. Numerous studies show that driving while sleep-deprived is just as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol, partly because of the increased risk of microsleep episodes.

What about coffee and caffeine supplements? Sleep health practitioner from RS Mitra Kemayoran, dr. Andreas Prasadja, RPSGT, states that caffeine only delays drowsiness and can never truly replace sleep. Beyond a certain point, caffeine will be unable to prevent microsleep episodes.