Can not sleeping kill you?

Question

I haven't slept for four days non stop. My head feels like its going to burst.
If i last 7 days then i get £500 pounds ($1000).

Is it worth it .. i.e. will it kill me?

Thanks

Answer 1

If you are in generally good health otherwise, then no, it won't kill you to go without sleep for only a few days...but it is definitely NOT a healthy practice. Prolonged sleep deprivation ages the body quickly and can lead to a wide variety of health problems that WILL kill you.

When you sleep is the time your body rebuilds and repairs itself. You are lowering your immunity by doing this. Don't be surprised if you get the flu or something in the near future. You might want to take a good multivitamin and some extra antioxidants for awhile to help your body out until you have recovered from this bet.

Answer 2

The current world record for the longest period without sleep is 11 days, set by Randy Gardner in 1965. Four days into the research, he began hallucinating. This was followed by a delusion where he thought he was a famous footballer. Surprisingly, Randy was actually functioning quite well at the end of his research and he could still beat the scientist at pinball.

Answer 3

I understand your reason for doing this. It's very hard on the body to not sleep. It needs the time to rest and slowdown, which allows the natural repair process to take place. You probably will survive. I recommend you drink purified water mixed with mineral water 50/50. This will replace the minerals that are exiting your body continuously.

I suggest that adults and children drink 40 ounces of water per 100 pounds of body weight every day. Realize that exercise, ambient temperature, and state of health affect the water needs of your body. One tip since your not sleeping : it is healthier to drink a sports drink or water than fruit juice, soda, coffee, or milk during this time.

Answer 4

Are you eating and drinking? You body gets deprived of sleep and it will make the whole world seem different to you. You will begin to experience sleep deprivation and all sorts of craziness will occur. Can you take cat naps? Make sure you take slow deep breathing. Relax yourself as much as possible. Remember there is a large pillow at the end of this ordeal. However, make sure you are drinking fluids and small frequent snacks for supplement. There are better ways to earn money!