Side Effects of Sleep Deprivation

The human body needs sufficient sleep in order to function properly. Most people require a minimum of eight hours of sleep to be completely rested and rejuvenated. While some people can function on as little as four or five hours of sleep a night, their bodies and minds will eventually feel the effects of sleep deprivation. Sleep deprivation can cause various mental and physical side effects. Over time, chronic sleep loss can have an adverse effect on a person's overall heath.

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Physical Side Effects
- Sleep deprivation can cause headaches, blurred vision and dizziness. Nausea may also occur. Chronic sleep loss also weakens the immune system, which can make a person more susceptible to colds, flu, infection and other illnesses.
Mental Side Effects
- Lack of adequate sleep can result in irritability, stress and anxiety. Sleep deprivation can affect the ability to focus and concentrate. Mental confusion and memory loss may occur due to insufficient sleep.
Appearance
- Insufficient sleep can leave you looking older and tired. Dark circles and bags form under the eyes giving you a haggard appearance.
Effects on Children
- Children often fight sleep but most parents don't realize that hyperactive behavior in a child can be a sign of sleep deprivation. A child that is bursting with energy beyond the bedtime hour is quite likely overly tired.
Behavior
- Sleep deprivation can impair the brain's ability to learn. People who do not get sufficient sleep may stutter, have difficulty making decisions and may not be able to multitask with any level of efficiency. Thought patterns can become repetitive and creativity declines.
Warning
- There are many dangers of sleep deprivation but one of the most common is accidents. Sleep deprived people are prone to injuries and more likely to be involved in a car accident. Lack of sleep affects hand/eye coordination, motor skills and slows reaction time.
Prevention/Solution
- Adequate sleep is necessary for the body and mind to regenerate. Going to sleep an hour earlier each night or taking a power nap during the day can help you to get the rest that you need. Children should have regular bed and nap times. Maintain your health and increase your productivity by getting the sleep you need.

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Side Effects of Sleep Deprivation

Physical Side Effects

Mental Side Effects

Appearance

Effects on Children

Behavior

Warning

Prevention/Solution

Resources

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