Sleep Deprivation is Dangerous

FROM NATIONAL SLEEP FOUNDATION'S 2002 SLEEP IN AMERICA POLL:

"Poll results show that while many Americans enjoy the benefits of sufficient sleep, as many as 47 million adults may be putting themselves at risk for injury, health and behavior problems because they aren't meeting their minimum sleep need in order to be fully alert the next day."

These statistics frighten me. The 2002 National Sleep Awareness Week this year emphasizes dangers such as drowsy driving, stress, anger and road rage. But the dangers of sleep deprivation go far beyond these visible risks. Sleep deprivation can, in fact, undermine all areas of your physical and mental health.

Sleep deprivation weakens the immune system leaving us more susceptible to other diseases and disorders like diabetes, cancer and even the common cold.

It is not uncommon for people who suffer from sleep deprivation due to sleep disorders - sleep apnea, narcolepsy, insomnia, etc. - to also suffer from other problems including diabetes, asthma or a second sleep disorder.

Sleep deprivation also causes much stress and, again, stress weakens our immune system - a double whammy. And both of these things, sleep deprivation and stress, can upset your mental processes. You may suffer from confusion, memory loss, irritability or emotional highs and lows. If you already have a mental disorder, sleep deprivation only adds to the problem.

Many elderly people suffer from insomnia and other sleep disorders. For the elderly, sleep deprivation can be even more dangerous. Sleepy people are less focused on what they are doing or where they are going, and this could lead to falls or even to becoming lost on an unfamiliar street. Of course, added to other problems of the elderly, Alzheimer's, dementia, or even memory losses, and you have a real problem.

So, if you want to stay healthy, be sure you get the sleep you need. If it means a change in lifestyle like cutting out some of your activities or altering sleep habits, remember, if you don't have your health, you probably won't be participating in these activities anyway. If your lack of sleep comes from a sleep disorder, or even if you suspect you may have a sleep disorder, talk to your doctor and ask if he thinks you should have a sleep study done.

Sleep - it's one of life's essentials.
Created: November 20, 2003