Sleep deprivation can cause many harmful and potentially long term side effects. New parents and college students will probably agree with me when I say how much sleep is missed when you are not getting enough. Below are a few side effects that can come from lack of sleep:
Short Term:
- Decreased performance and alertness
- Memory and cognitive impairment
- Stress
- Poor quality of life
- Occupational injury
- Auto injury (falling asleep at the wheel)
Long Term (increased risk of):
- High blood pressure
- Heart attack
- Heart failure
- Stroke
- Obesity
- Mental impairment
- Fetal and childhood growth retardation
Tips to Help You Sleep:
- Do not eat late
- Make sure it is dark and quiet
- Be cozy
- Drink soothing tea before bed
- Try acupuncture for insomnia
- Relax before bed
Contributor: Dr. Gregg Baron
The statements made in this article have not been evaluated by Health Canada or the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. None of the information presented is intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.
