Symptoms of a Lack of Sleep

It is no secret that Americans, more than any other nationality, suffer from sleep deprivation. In many cases, individuals have gone for so long without regular and healthy sleep patterns that they suffer from chronic symptoms of lack of sleep without even realizing it. The symptoms of lack of sleep can interfere with driving and other activities that require high amounts of focused concentration and attention, leading to increased traffic accidents and injury.

A lack of sleep can affect your entire life.

Fatigue

According to Dr. Dennis Aukley, director of the MetroHealth Center's for Sleep Disorders at Case Western Reserve University, deep ongoing fatigue is a very common symptom of chronic and ongoing lack of sleep. Among the symptoms of lack of sleep, this is probably the most obvious. Many people falsely believe that they can short themselves on sleep during the week and make up for it on the weekend. However, this approach only deepens their fatigue.

Sleepiness

Another symptom of lack of sleep, according to Dr. Aukley, is extreme sleepiness. By shorting the body of needed sleep, the body will naturally attempt to fill the need by making us sleepier and sleepier until we nod off and fall asleep. This can be especially dangerous while driving or while engaging in activities where our full concentration is needed. For example, sleep deprivation among medical professionals, airline traffic controllers and others important to our health and safety is very common and can result in tragedies.

Headaches

Headaches can become chronic for individuals who are regularly sleep deprived, according to Dr. Aukley. Although taking ibuprofen can temporarily resolve a sleep deprivation headache, soon the headache will return. Generally, the resolution to this type of headache is to get sleep and allow the body to rest and revive. Headaches can also be attributed to feelings of tension that increase as the body becomes more and more tired.

Irritability

As we become more and more tired, one of the most obvious symptoms of lack of sleep is irritability. Dr. Aukley states that sleep deprivation can interfere with social relationships and the ability to relate to other people. For individuals who work in industries or positions where personal relationships are important, this alone can be detrimental. Personal and family relationships may suffer as a result of chronic sleep deprivation.

Offsetting the Body Clock

Dr. Aukley indicates that all humans have an internal body clock that regulates the need for sleep. Chronic sleep deprivation can offset or alter the body's natural circadian rhythms and create insomnia. Chronic insomnia can be addressed with the help of medications that encourage sleep. However, good sleep hygiene practices should be the first line of defense in avoiding sleep deprivation altogether. This includes going to bed at the same time, having a darkened, quiet room for sleeping, not consuming food late at night and avoiding stimulating activities.

References

• Dennis Aukley, MD, Case Western Reserve University