Sleep Deprivation

We spend one third of our lives sleeping...or trying to. It's amazing how awful we feel after only one night with little or no sleep. Sleep (or the lack of it) greatly affects our health. Laboratory rats that were not allowed to rest, died within two to three weeks. Humans are also greatly adversely affected by a lack of sleep. More and more research indicates that sleep deprivation affects our thinking process. When we do not have adequate rest, we lose our ability to reason properly, to concentrate, and to make good decisions. We are not very pleasant to be around, because we are exhausted, irritable, impatient and moody. Long term sleep deficit can contribute to depression. Some other surprising effects of not getting enough sleep, are hypertension, cardiovascular problems, slurred speech and tremors. Even hallucinations have occurred. Our immune system becomes impaired, and we suffer more sickness and infection as a result. Because of hormonal changes that result from a lack of sleep, many people may gain weight. Accidents often occur due to impaired reasoning. 200,000 auto accidents each year are a result of sleepy drivers.

Sleep deprivation can even bring about accelerated aging. Human growth hormone is produced during restful sleep, and this helps strengthen the bones, builds muscle, thickens the skin, and helps us to retain a more youthful appearance. As previously mentioned, the stress and emotional fatigue that results from sleep loss, can also affect the aging process. Sleep is a very valuable restorative tool for the body.

Of course, almost everyone has a bad night now and then, but when sleeplessness becomes chronic, it should be recognized as a disorder. If left untreated many physical problems can occur. Finding the reason for the sleep disorder, is essential in knowing how to treat it. For some, it may be due to chronic pain, such as arthritis, or other health problems. Other medical conditions such as reflux, sleep apnea, or restless leg syndrome may affect sleep. Sometimes medications can be the cause. A visit to a doctor or a therapist is in order when the situation becomes life disrupting. A doctor may order sleep studies, where a patient is monitored throughout the night, and the brain waves and various sleep stages are observed and charted. A therapist can help in deciding if the sleep disturbance is caused by an emotional problem, such as grieving, depression, or anxiety.

Some remedies for sleep disorders are, prescription or over the counter drugs, exercising earlier in the day, treating reflux or severe heartburn, and avoiding nicotine, alcohol and caffeine in the hours prior to sleeping. A cup of warm milk may also be helpful. Milk contains L-tryptophan, and research has shown, that it is beneficial as a sleep aid, for some people. A warm bath or shower also prepares the body for rest. Additionally, researchers report that it is important to set regular waking and sleeping schedules. This will keep the circadian rhythms correct. The body has its own internal clock that enables it to recuperate, restore and repair.

Perhaps one of the greatest contributors to a good night's sleep is the environment. Make sure that the temperature is comfortable for sleeping, and that the night clothes and cover are adequate for the season. Block out as much light as possible. You may want to play soothing music or read something (a little boring) before turning out the light.

According to William C. Dement MD., PhD., of Stanford University, "Pervasive sleep deprivation and untreated and mistreated sleep disorders remain, arguably, the biggest health problem in America. The costs of a sleepy society include lost lives, lost income, disability, lost educational opportunities, accidents and family dysfunction."

Sources: http://www.sleep-deprivation.com/articles/effects-of-sleep-deprivation/index.php
http://www5.bathandbodyworks.com/browse.do?nav_keyword=expertadvicebreus&cm_mmc=CH-_-0912ATSLEEP-_-1003040-_-subgetsleeptips&cm_lm=r-lharrell@cox.net
http://www.cfah.org/factsoflife/vol9no1.cfm
http://www.sleep-deprivation.com/articles/effects-of-sleep-deprivation/