The Impact of Sleep Deprivation
As Physiotherapists we help you relieve pain with a combination of exercises and other treatment techniques, but nothing helps muscle recovery more than rest and relaxation.
Sleep is a very important part of our lives for the following reasons:
1. Learning and memory
Sleep helps the brain commit new information to memory; a process called memory consolidation.
2. Metabolism and weight
Being overweight can increase the likelihood of suffering from sleep disorders like apnoea. On the other hand, chronic sleep deprivation may cause weight gain.
3. Mood/quality of life
Lack of sleep may result in symptoms like irritability, impatience, inability to concentrate, and moodiness. In some cases, anxiety and depression can also occur.
4. Cardiovascular health
Serious sleep disorders like insomnia and sleep apnoea have been linked to high blood pressure, increased stress hormone levels, cardiac arrhythmias, and increased inflammation.
5. Immunity/risk of disease
Though all the mechanisms aren’t clear, scientists have found that sleep deprivation alters immune function. If you don’t get enough sleep, you may find yourself falling sick more often.
How Much Sleep? 7 Hours or More…
It’s likely that you need to make a conscious effort to get more sleep. The human body needs at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep every night. However, it’s not just the duration of sleep, but also the quality that matters.
Lack of sleep can cause several problems. Aside from drowsiness, it can cause immune, nervous system, endocrine, and cardiovascular issues
The Impact of Sleep Deprivation
Sleep deprivation can set off a chain of events that can affect different parts of your life. These may include:
• Poor health caused by bad food choices. A study in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine discovered that people, especially women, who suffered from sleep apnoea tend to consume foods that are high in cholesterol, protein, and fat.
• Impaired sugar metabolism and diabetes are more likely in those who get five hours of sleep (or less) a day.
• Both factors above can lead to weight gain and obesity.
• The incidence of car accidents increases when sleep-deprived individuals are behind the wheel.
• Heart attacks are more likely when you sleep five hours or less.
• Balance problems and falls are more likely (especially in the elderly).
• Children who don’t get enough sleep tend to be irritable, and in extreme cases, show behavioral issues.
When you get enough sleep, your body functions better. We want you to be the best you can be, physically and mentally, which is why we want you to get enough sleep.
Getting enough sleep and planning an exercise program to improve your strength and flexibility will be one of the most important things you can do and we are here to help you.