In our fast-paced society, getting a full night’s rest is a luxury, not a certainty. Too often, we pull ourselves from our beds, despite needing a couple additional hours of sleep. While this is a common practice, the effects of sleep deprivation can be severe. When we fail to get enough sleep, our judgment, productivity and health are negatively affected.
The short-term effects of sleep deprivation can include a decline in our judgment, focus and mood. After one night of inadequate sleep, the traits that encourage productivity are suppressed, including creativity and retention. Our body requires sleep to repair our mental ability after a long day. Meeting daily sleep requirements allows us to rest the parts of the brain responsible for decision-making, problem-solving, innovation and comprehension. During prolonged periods of sleep deprivation, our body experiences a number of adverse effects, including:
- Decreased memory and learning capabilities
- Increased risk of illness or disease
- Mood disorders
- Shortened lifespan
Advocates for healthy sleep seek to educate our population on the many health risks associated with sleeping disorders. Additionally, they hope to encourage individuals with sleeping problems to seek treatment. Disorders such as snoring and sleep apnea can interfere with the sleep cycle and lead to excessive sleepiness and chronic illness. Symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea include:
- Loud, frequent snoring
- Pauses in between breaths
- Persistent drowsiness and fatigue
- Morning headaches
In order to increase your productivity and protect your overall health, you should seek immediate professional care if you exhibit symptoms of a sleep disorder. A professional ENT doctor will provide thorough diagnostics and personalized recommendations for sleep apnea and snoring treatments. Tyler, Texas has some of the country’s premiere ENT doctors. To schedule a consultation, contact our staff at [phone1 link=”true”].