Sleep deprivation occurs when an individual consistently does not get the minimum number of hours he needs at night in order to function at full power. Sleep deprivation not only leaves an individual tired during the day but can also have dangerous effects on physical and mental health.
Physical Effects of Sleep Deprivation
According to the Washington Post not getting enough sleep increases an individual's risk of developing a number of illnesses. These include but are not limited to cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. It appears that sleep deprivation decreases the function of an individual's immune system making her more susceptible to illnesses ranging from minor to major. An individual who does not get enough sleep at night may be at a higher risk for colon and breast cancer.
Mental Effects of Sleep Deprivation
Sleep deprivation can affect the way an individual thinks, acts and performs normal activities. Sleep allows both the body and the brain to rest and heal. Without enough sleep the brain loses power and an individual will have problems with memory and concentration. Individuals who do not get enough sleep may experience emotional instability. Problem solving will be difficult and the ability to make a rational decision may be compromised. In some cases sleep deprivation can cause hallucinations.
Sleep Deprivation and Weight Gain
In 2004 USA Today told of scientific research that had found that not getting enough sleep could actually lead to weight gain and contribute to obesity. Numerous studies have shown that when an individual does not get enough sleep he will have higher than normal levels of the hormone Gherlin. This hormone stimulates the appetite and makes an individual feel hungry. Individuals who are sleep deprived may also have low levels of the hormone leptin. This hormone allows an individual to feel satisfied and without it she will feel hungry. Combining an increased appetite with a decreased feeling of fullness leads to overeating, which in turn leads to obesity.
Although it is not always easy to get a full eight hours of sleep every night, individuals who are experiencing far less than this and experiencing physical and mental fatigue during the day should consult a doctor. A physician will be able to identify why problems wih sleep are occuring and let sleep deprived patient's know what treatment options are available to them. Getting enough sleep at night is essential to the functioning of a human being and not getting enough sleep has the potential of leading to a myriad of physical and mental problems.
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