How Quality Sleep Impacts Your Long-Term Health
Sleep has been studied by scientists for hundreds of years. The need for us to rest each night has fascinated and confused many in the history of science, and it was not until recently that the true reasons we sleep each night have come to light. Once thought to be only good and not necessary, sleep is now known to be essential to our physical and mental health.
The Vital Function of Sleep
While we sleep there are many processes going on in our body supporting our mental and physical health for when we wake up.
- Important information is picked out from memory during sleep so that prioritization can be made.
- Sleeping clears toxins from the brain.
- Cell repair occurs during sleep.
- Sleep balances the hormones in our body.
- Deep sleep triggers growth in those still growing.
- The brain forms new pathways to help form memory.
Impacts of Sleep Deprivation
Knowing all of the important things our body does for us while we sleep, it would come as no surprise to know that getting too little sleep can have a great impact on both your immediate and long-term health. Lack of sleep can lead to issues such as:
- Feeling depressed
- Hallucinations
- Lack of concentration
- Problems learning
- Hyperactivity and nervousness
- Insatiable appetite
Risk Factors for Early Mortality in Lack of Sleep
Think, for a moment, about someone you know who is sleep deprived. It may be someone who has insomnia, a workaholic who works overtime and into the early hours of the morning, or a mother who gets woken up by her children often. Over a short period of time, while not good for your health, these people can often recover if they find ways to get more sleep. However, if these cycles of little to no sleep continue, their health is in serious danger. Years may be cut off of their life due to risk factors they develop for disease and illness such as:
- Type 2 Diabetes
- Obesity
- Cardiovascular disease
- Mental illness
- Hypertension
- Lowered immune function
The good news is that if you are having trouble getting to sleep or staying asleep, you are not alone and there are ways to get help. Whether it is a lifestyle change or medication, O2 Pulmonary & Sleep Group can help you turn your health around. Contact us for an appointment at 214-919-0757.