10 CONSEQUENCES OF LONG-TERM SLEEP DEPRIVATION

Our understanding of why our bodies require sleep hasn't changed despite decades of research. The consequence on our health, though, can be catastrophic if we don't receive the recommended 8 hours of sleep each night. The top 10 impacts of chronic sleep deprivation are examined in further detail below.

Long term sleep deprivation has been linked to a number of diseases and conditions, including high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, obesity, depression, anxiety, memory loss, immune system deterioration, lower fertility rates, and psychiatric problems.

1. Hypertension

A higher incidence of hypertension has been associated with sleeping for less than 5 to 6 hours per night. Lack of sleep can intensify the impact of stress on the body since sleep aids in the regulation of hormones that generate stress. Increased blood pressure, a faster heartbeat, and inflammation have all been linked to chronic sleep deprivation. Your heart is overworked as a result of all of this.

2. Heart Attack and Stroke

Lack of sleep increases the risk of serious cardiovascular issues like heart attacks and stroke. The reason for this, according to medical professionals and researchers, is that sleep deprivation may disturb brain regions that govern the circulatory system or result in inflammation that increases the risk of blood clot development.

3. Gaining Weight & Obesity

Consistent sleep issues might lead to rapid weight gain. Cortisol, a stress hormone, is produced in greater proportions when people don't get enough sleep, and the ensuing worry, stress, and frustration can lead to emotional eating and bad nutritional practices. Another hormone known as ghrelin, which is made in the stomach and has been linked to chronic sleep deprivation, can actually make people feel more hungry.

Sleep deprivation affects the body's metabolism and eating patterns over time. Fatigue frequently causes unhealthy appetites and overeating, as well as a reduction in stamina and physical activity. According to research, persons who are sleep deprived are more inclined to select foods that are high in sugar and carbohydrates.

4. Diabetes

Even five hours of sleep every night is not sufficient. According to research, sleep deprivation may affect how the body processes glucose, which cells utilize as fuel, as well as how much insulin the body produces. For this reason, it's regarded as a serious risk factor for the onset of type 2 diabetes.

5. Anxiety and Depression

Most individuals get cranky if they don't get a decent night's sleep, but chronic sleep loss has also been related to clinical depression and a general lack of desire. On the other hand, people with depression frequently have erratic sleeping patterns. Melatonin, a hormone, controls both sleep patterns and mood. In fact, individuals with depression and sleeplessness frequently have reduced amounts of melatonin.

Those with persistent sleep problems may also frequently experience anxiety and panic episodes since they have a poorer tolerance for even little daily stimuli. Sometimes it might be challenging to determine which disorder started first—anxiety or the sleep issue—much like with depression.

6. Defective Brain Function

We've all had mental fog, weariness, irritability, and lack of attention after only one sleepless night. Mental abilities can significantly deteriorate if the brain is unable to relax sufficiently for a prolonged period of time. We are aware of the need of getting enough sleep for mental clarity, concentration, and learning, but we are also aware of how important it is for decision-making, problem-solving, and emotion control. Those who lack sleep also struggle with their motor skills, reflexes, and balance, which makes them far more prone to accidents. In car accidents, drowsiness plays a significant role.

7. Memory Loss

Sleep, according to many scientists, is crucial for the brain to organize itself and, in particular, to transfer information from the short-term memory to the long-term memory. Getting enough sleep is essential for memory recall. According to studies, memory loss improves after just one night of sound sleep.

8. Immune System Deficiency

Our immune systems work best when we get enough sleep, just like the rest of our bodies. Long-term sleep deprivation has a similar effect to chronic stress; it can lower your immune system's response and make you more susceptible to infections, including the common cold and flu.

9. Reduced Fertility

Not only can sleep issues reduce libido, but they can also negatively affect both men and women who are attempting to conceive. The same region of the brain that manages circadian rhythms also manages the flow of female hormones. Consistently receiving less than 7 hours of sleep might result in reduced levels of testosterone and the hormones that cause ovulation, which makes it harder to conceive.

10. Psychiatric Conditions

Many psychological disorders might result from a severe and prolonged lack of sleep. Disorientation, paranoia, and hallucinations are some of the symptoms that some people who are sleep deprived for long periods of time encounter. Occasionally, people may mistake or link these symptoms to schizophrenia.