Sleep is essential for our brains and bodies; it is a basic human need, just like eating, drinking and breathing.
When we become sleep-deprived, we may experience a myriad of negative effects, such as physical and mental health issues, injuries and productivity loss. We should not underestimate how important sleep health is in our daily lives. Read on to learn more about how chronic sleep deprivation affects our brains.
Chronic Sleep Deprivation Affects Our Moods
Between 50 and 70 million Americans have chronic, or ongoing sleep disorders. The average adult requires between 7 and 9 hours of sleep each night to live a healthy, productive life. Sleep deprivation’s effects on our bodies are easier to spot, but it is especially taxing on our cognitive functioning as well. When we become sleep deprived, it is harder for us to regulate our moods, leading to more volatile reactions to everyday life stressors or situations. You may also notice that when you are sleep deprived you are more irritable and angry than you w. Seeking assistance from sleep clinics can help combat chronic sleep deprivation.
Chronic Sleep Deprivation Causes Memory Loss
As we sleep, important brain waves are produced which play a pivotal role in storing memories. Chronic sleep deprivation keeps memories stuck in our hippocampus; in order for us to retain memories, they need to be transferred to our prefrontal cortex. In non-rapid-eye-movement (NREM) sleep, our brains produce waves from the middle frontal lobe. When we are unable to enter deep sleep, we become more forgetful, and are at risk of brain deterioration. Sleep consultants can provide guidance on how to improve sleep quality on a nightly basis.
Chronic Sleep Deprivation Disrupts Our Hormones
When we don’t get enough sleep, we produce more ghrelin than normal. Ghrelin is a hormone that is partially produced by the brain, which controls our hunger levels. Since it is harder for us to feel full when we have higher levels of ghrelin, we gain weight more readily. The ripple effects of chronic sleep deprivation are noteworthy, as excessive weight gain can lead to other issues like high blood pressure and obesity. As a result, it is important for us to take our sleep health seriously. Working with a sleep consultant can reap endless benefits, from improving mental health to reducing blood pressure.
Say Goodbye to Sleepless Nights with Minnesota’s Top Sleep Clinic
At Whitney Sleep, we believe everyone is entitled to good sleep health and happy lives. Are you interested in making an appointment with a sleep consultant? We are a sleep clinic that specializes in treating insomnia, narcolepsy and other sleep disorders. Our sleep consultants will provide treatment, which will decrease your risk of heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure and motor vehicle accidents.
Our team is happy to answer any questions you may have about scheduling a sleep consultation or treatment options. If you are experiencing chronic sleep deprivation, reach out to us now to make an appointment.