Ways sleep deprivation harms your health

Problems falling asleep or waking up during the night are common, and in some cases it is important to pay attention to certain symptoms that may indicate deeper difficulties with sleep.

According to Dr. Deborah Lee, poor sleep is not only an inconvenience, but can have serious long-term consequences for your physical and mental health.

"Many people perceive sleep as something they can easily give up or that they can easily make up for over the weekend, but the truth is that chronic sleep deprivation can have serious health consequences," says Dr. Lee.

She explained that there are clear signs that can indicate that your body is suffering from a lack of quality sleep, and if you notice any of the symptoms, it is beneficial to seek professional help.

The first sign is chronic fatigue, which is often associated with sleep disorders like apnea or narcolepsy, which disrupt sleep quality and leave you feeling tired despite getting enough sleep.

Additionally, it's important to pay attention to problems with concentration during the day. If you notice brain fog, forgetfulness, or poor memory, this could be a sign that your brain is not getting enough sleep and not getting quality sleep. When you don't get enough sleep, your brain can't function properly and has a hard time processing information, which can make you remember less and make decisions more slowly.

"If you find yourself dozing off, or falling asleep at the wheel, this is a sign that you should seek professional help as soon as possible," says Dr. Lee.

These symptoms may indicate serious sleep disorders, such as apnea, which not only pose a threat to your health, but also affect your safety and that of other people around you.

"Insomnia not only affects energy, but also emotions. If you've noticed that you're more irritable, anxious, or depressed, you may not be getting enough sleep," explains Dr. Lee.

Poor sleep disrupts the brain's ability to regulate emotions, leading to sudden mood swings and increased stress. If you wake up several times during the night, this is another sign of chronic fatigue, writes Express.

"When these concerns last for weeks, they may indicate disorders such as insomnia, anxiety, or depression," said Dr. Lee.

Long-term sleep deprivation can worsen existing health problems.

"Poor sleep increases the long-term risk of developing chronic diseases such as high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes and obesity," the doctor explains.

Quality sleep is essential for maintaining health and can greatly help control existing health problems.