Rest is necessary because it allows the body to repair and rejuvenate. Since sleep is the most effective form of rest, doctors recommend sleeping seven to nine hours every night. But unfortunately, as per research studies, one-third of adults in our country don’t meet this requirement. There may be several reasons for sleep deprivation. Regardless of the cause, a lack of sleep can lead to side effects that one shouldn’t ignore.
Impaired cognitive function
Sleep allows the brain to form new connections between nerve cells, remember and process information, and improve focus, productivity, and one’s ability to make logical decisions. A lack of sleep can severely exhaust the brain and impair cognitive function, leading to reduced coordination, delayed reactions, an unstable emotional state, and mood swings. These side effects take a toll on one’s life by increasing the risk of accidents and the probability of making errors at school and the workplace. If ignored, chronic sleep deprivation can worsen these symptoms and lead to hallucinations, anxiety, and mania.
Weakened immune system
The body heals and repairs itself during sleep. A lack of quality sleep can weaken a person’s immune system, making them susceptible to infections. It can also slow the recovery process from any illness.
Digestive and hormonal problems
Sleep deprivation disrupts digestion and the functioning of hormones that regulate hunger, leading to increased appetite, particularly for high-calorie foods. It also affects insulin sensitivity, which can lead to diabetes. Furthermore, a lack of sleep makes one feel more tired during the day, reducing one’s performance in physical activity.
Cardiovascular complications
A lack of sleep can also adversely affect heart health, leading to inflammation and elevated blood pressure and glucose levels. These symptoms can cause plaque to form around the blood vessels. When left to accumulate, plaque can restrict blood flow and increase the likelihood of cardiovascular complications, including strokes.
Emotional disturbances
Sleep deprivation can affect people’s emotional health, causing extreme mood swings, irritability, a lack of stability, and over-reactive behavior. One may find it challenging to cope with simple everyday tasks as well as complex situations. Prolonged insomnia may also lead to anxiety.
The effects of sleep deprivation can be short- or long-term, and they can affect adults and kids alike. If a person experiencing these consequences continues to ignore the importance of sleep, it can have a far-reaching and detrimental impact on their physical and mental health. So, those facing issues with sleeping should get professional help to ensure optimal health.
What causes sleep deprivation?
In today’s fast-paced world, sleep may take a backseat. A busy lifestyle, irregular work shifts, and long working hours are the primary factors that affect one’s sleep-wake cycle. Lifestyle and environmental issues like excessive caffeine consumption, a lack of a routine, overuse of gadgets, and an uncomfortable room temperature or sleep environment are other things that add to the problem.
Besides the above, health conditions like gastrointestinal issues, hormonal imbalances, insomnia, or sleep apnea can also lead to sleep deprivation. While lifestyle habits might be easier to fix with determination and planning, health conditions usually require an expert’s attention.
