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Negative Effects of Lack of Sleep

It is estimated anywhere up to 70 million Americans do not get enough sleep, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. There are a number of factors that can affect a person's ability to get a good night's sleep. Stress, employment hours and sleep disorders are all reasons a person may not get the recommended seven to nine hours sleep a night. Identifying the negative effects lack of sleep has on a person may help work toward achieving a more regular sleep pattern.

  1. Short Term

    • The short-term side effects of sleep loss can range from irritability to decreased alertness. Lack of sleep affects the hormone that controls a person's metabolism, increasing their risk of obesity and diabetes. As well as feeling grumpy, lack of sleep can affect a person's ability to concentrate and focus. Day-to-day tasks are harder to complete and accidents are more likely when a person is tired. Driving when suffering from lack of sleep is dangerous and not recommended. When a driver is tired, not only do they have trouble focusing, they are less aware of potential hazards, according to the National Institutes for Health.

    Long Term

    • Lack of sleep for long periods can have serious consequences on a person's health, says a report from the Division of Sleep Medicine at Harvard Medical School. Prolonged shortage of sleep reduces the ability of a person's immune system, exposing them to risk of illness. Reduced sleep also affects the hormone that controls a person's metabolism; this increases the likelihood of obesity and diabetes. Chronic sleep issues can cause major health conditions such as increased blood pressure, stroke and heart conditions. People who do not sleep properly are more likely to suffer from mood disorders such as depression, stress and emotional problems.

    Relationships

    • The negative effects of lack of sleep are not always restricted to behavior and health problems. People who suffer with sleep issues may also experience relationship problems. Being tired and grumpy will influence how they interact with other people. Poor sleep patterns can affect performance in the workplace leading to negative working relationships. A marriage or relationship can be put under immense strain when a partner suffers with chronic sleep problems. Loss of interest and possibly sleeping at different times can all have negative effects. It is also believed people who suffer from chronic sleep problems are more likely to suffer infertility, states the National Institute for Health.

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