Whether you are a parent, have a busy schedule, or just struggle with falling asleep in general, you are not alone. More than one-third of Americans are not getting enough sleep on a regular basis. Medical professionals recommend that adults between the ages of eighteen and sixty sleep at least seven hours a night. Without the seven hours of good quality rest one’s health and well-being are greatly diminished.
Sleeping less than the recommended amount is associated with issues such as obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and mental distress. When someone gets less than the recommended amount of good quality sleep, they can become sleep deprived.
Children and young adults are the most vulnerable to sleep deprivation as their brains are still developing. However, sleep deprivation can impact people of any age. Below you will find symptoms of sleep deprivation. If you are experiencing some or all of these, you should consult your sleep specialist in NYC, Dr. Shukla and see how he can help support you in finding a way to get a good night’s rest.
Symptoms of Sleep Deprivation
1. Mood Changes
Sleep deprivation can make you more emotional and moodier than usual. Continuous sleep deprivation can affect your mental health and eventually lead to anxiety or depression.
2. Weakened Immune System
Little or poor-quality sleep can weaken your immune system. You’re more likely to get sick when you are exposed to germs when you are sleep deprived.
3. Cognitive Difficulties
If you are low on sleep your ability to process information is slower and less clear. Sleep deprivation can cause issues with concentration, creativity, and problem-solving. In addition, your risk for injury is higher as your reflexes are slower due to the reduction in sleep.
4. Weight Gain and Overeating
Due to the lack of quality sleep, the chemicals that signal to your brain that you are full are off-balance. Because of this, you’re more likely to overeat. Many people experience craving carbohydrates as they give the feeling of fullness. This can cause weight gain and joint issues.
5. Lowered Sex Drive
Those who get little sleep have a lower libido. This can have a huge impact on your relationship if you are partnered up with someone as intimacy is a major aspect of a relationship.
6. Diminished Motor Skills
If you find yourself tripping or being more clumsy than usual, you probably need some more rest. Lack of sleep can lower reaction times and the ability to process external factors as you move around.
7. Skin Issues
Beauty sleep is necessary for your skin to repair damaged cells. A lack of sleep upsets your hormone balance and elevates estrogen levels. If not taken care of you will see excessive wrinkles and a decrease in collagen leaving your skin vulnerable to premature aging.
8. Lack of Motivation
Getting excited and focusing on your short- and long-term goals can become an issue if you are sleep deprived. Good quality sleep helps with motivation and the ability to focus on completing tasks (big or small).
Sleep Doctor in New York City
If you are struggling with sleep and experience some or all of the symptoms of sleep deprivation above, contact Sleep MD for support and solutions to getting a good night’s rest. Dr. Mayank Shukla is a sleep doctor with over fifteen years of experience working with patients who have struggled with sleep. Dr. Shukla has worked with adults and children with various sleep issues to find a solution that works for their lifestyle.
Our team of specialists at Sleep MD are well versed in a variety of different sleep issues, including sleep apnea and numerous sleep disorders. Dr. Shukla is focused on getting his patients back to their full potential and getting a good night’s rest. If you are experiencing issues with sleep, making an appointment with Dr. Shukla and his team of experts is the first step to finding the solution to your sleep problem.
