The primary symptom of fatal familial insomnia is difficulty falling or staying asleep. When someone with the disorder does sleep, they may experience vivid dreams and muscle spasms or stiffness. The characteristic lack of sleep and brain damage can cause a wide range of other symptoms, including: sweating.

How do you know if you have FFI?

The most common symptoms are sleep disturbance, psychiatric problems, weight loss, and balance problems. Other symptoms include high blood pressure , excess sweating, and difficulty controlling body temperature. These symptoms tend to get worse over time. FFI is usually fatal in 6-36 months.

At what age does FFI start?

FFI affects men and women in equal numbers. The average age of onset is 45-50 years old, although the disorder has been described occurring in individuals in their teens and as late as their 70s.