Nightmares and hallucinations may signal autoimmune disease flares: Study

A new study focuses on potential early warning indicators for autoimmune illnesses such as lupus. Researchers have found an increase in nightmares and hallucinations, sometimes known as "daymares," as a probable sign of an upcoming flare-up for these disorders.

Lupus is an autoimmune disease where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue.

While it can damage a variety of organs, a recent study reveals that the neurological system may also be affected. This might emerge as psychological and neurological issues.

An international research team led by researchers from the University of Cambridge and King's College London carried out a study on persons suffering from lupus and other autoimmune rheumatic disorders. They polled approximately 670 lupus patients and interviewed nearly 70 people with other autoimmune disorders. In addition, they polled nearly 400 healthcare experts.

The study's main finding is a relationship between interrupted dream sleep and possible disease flare-ups. Three out of five lupus patients reported having disrupted sleep, which typically included vivid and unpleasant nightmares. Notably, one-third of these patients experienced a lupus flare within one year.

Hallucinations, both visual and auditory, were also reported by a significant portion of the study participants. While less frequent than nightmares, hallucinations were present in nearly a quarter of the lupus patients. Interestingly, the study found that for some patients, particularly those with lupus, increasingly disturbing nightmares preceded the onset of hallucinations. These nightmares often involved themes of being attacked, trapped, crushed, or falling.

The study emphasizes the significance of identifying these mental health and neurological symptoms as possible indications of autoimmune disease activity. The authors of the study underline the need of open communication between patients and clinicians. Early recognition of a flare-up allows for rapid medical management, potentially reducing the severity of the incident.

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