techguy

For about a year, and again today, when I wake up from a nap, I feel a tingling sensation in my hands and feet at the same time. It's not painful, and it only lasts about a minute.

Does anyone here understand the physiology of sleep? It almost feels as if I get an injection as I'm waking up. The sensation sometimes feels as if it starts in my hands and then slowly travels down my legs to my feet. It can also feel as if it's radiating.

As it's happening I start to feel more energy, refreshed, but what is the connection between sleep, energy, hands, and feet?

What chemicals are released into the bloodstream when or just before you wake up? Cortisol?

I read that most people's cortisol levels are highest when they wake up at the beginning of the day, and lowest at night just before they go to sleep.

The curious thing is that this sensation doesn't happen in the morning or after regular sleep overnight. It's only during the day or evening after a nap.

The same sensation doesn't happen at any other time, e.g., when I'm working. I can't recall a situation/event which might have triggered the problem. There is no family history of it.

The other reason why I suspect it's cortisol-related is one of the benefits after the "injection" is the inflammation in my sinuses clears slightly.

I'm asking because I have other rare and unresolved health issues, and I'm hoping the explanation for this nap mystery will provide the clues to explain them.

Nap, cortisol, nerves... what's the connection exactly?