We're going to chill your blood
Explore the reactions that prickle our necks - the science of fear.
Related programme
Mike Leahy and Peter Naish discuss why we need sleep and what happens if we are deprived, as part of the BBC/OU programme website for 'Lab Rats'
So how can you stay awake if you really want to, and is it safe?
Coffee is a good way of taking in caffeine. This elevates the blood pressure and raises the levels of stress hormones, creating a scenario where the body acts as if it's under stress. This can help you to stay awake for very short periods, but is harmful to the health if used for extended periods. Red Bull and similar drinks can help you to stay awake in the same way.
For those suffering with narcolepsy a drug called 'Modafinil' can be used to help them remain awake, and there is evidence that this may help those working unusual shifts as well. However, there are real fears that it may be misused (as are many other drugs) by the 24/7 generation. The drug, which has been used to aid the military when alertness and lack of fatigue are desirable, appears to act specifically in the brain's pre-frontal cortex, which is an area of the brain that is most active in people who are awake. Activity in this area of the brain is required for planning and memory. Unlike other stimulants, such as coffee or amphetamines, the drug appears not to give subjects the feeling of being 'wired'. At the moment it is not known if there are long-term side effects, but research is underway.
Of course, there are other drugs that can keep people awake. Many are illegal, such as amphetamines which some people use to help them party all night. It is emerging that one of the side effects may well turn out to be memory loss later in life, so think twice before you use drugs that haven't been through clinical trials; even if they feel good at the time they can have hidden long-term dangers.
The value of sleep
Sleep has evolved with us over millions of years and is clearly essential for our survival. Sleep is one the most basic things we do and science has learnt a great deal about it, but it continues to throw up fascinating questions that science has yet to fully explore and understand.
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Content last updated: 25/08/2005
Dr. Pater Naish
Peter Naish is a lecturer in Cognitive Psychology at the Open University. He has a particular interest in the mechanisms and effects of hypnosis, including its ability to influence perceptions or memories.
He is a member of the Council of the British Society of Experimental and Clinical Hypnosis, and chairs the Scientific Advisory Board of the British False Memory Society.
