A run-through on the impact of sleep deprivation on the body

No one is a fan of tossing and turning at night. A night of bad sleep constitutes irritability and reduced focus the following the day, among other negative effects. Failure to get seven hours of sleep per night presents a plethora of health issues.

The central nervous system is regarded as the primary information highway of the body. In order to keep it running and running well, proper sleep should be nonnegotiable. Seven to nine hours of sleep every night allows the brain to relax, regroup, and prepare for the next day, says Lisa M. Cannon, M.D. Perpetual sleep deprivation increases a person’s risk of experiencing mood swings, compromising creativity and decision-making.

Continued sleep deprivation can cause hallucinations. Seeing or hearing things that do not actually exist is only one of the many psychological risks lack of sleep induces. For individuals who suffer from bipolar mood disorder, lack of sleep may trigger mania. Anxiety, impulsive behavior, paranoia, depression, and suicidal thoughts are some of the psychological risks of sleep deprivation.

The immune system generates antibodies and cytokines, which are both essential in protecting and fighting infection. These substances are used by the immune system to fight foreign substances like virus and bacteria. According to Lisa M. Cannon, M.D., not getting enough sleep stops the immune system from strengthening its walls. The less sleep a person gets, the less chance their body can combat foreign invaders. The risk of contracting chronic illnesses such as heart disease and diabetes is increased in individuals who suffer from extended sleep deprivation.

Lisa M. Cannon, M.D., is a board-certified physician specializing in pulmonary disease, critical care, and sleep medicine. She holds a Master’s in Public Health from NYU Wagner School of Public Service. At present, Dr. Cannon has a private practice in Bergen County, New Jersey. To read more, head over to this page.