What is Sleep Deprivation?: According to the CDC NASD Fact Sheet insomnia or irregular sleep is a risk factor for sleep deprivation. Sleep deprivation as defined by the Centers for Disease Control is a condition that results when someone sleeps for less than seven to eight hours every night for several nights in a row. Long-term sleep deprivation can lead to chronic insomnia and have serious health effects. Many researchers characterize sleep deprivation as a sleep disorder or risk factor for insomnia.
Causes of Sleep Deprivation: Like insomnia, there are many causes for sleep deprivation. Some of the more "common" causes for sleep deprivation include:
- getting less than 7 to 8 hours of sleep regularly
- sleeping poorly
- primary insomnia
- secondary insomnia
- chronic illness or disease
- underlying conditions like generalized anxiety or clinical depression
Consequences of Sleep Deprivation and Insomnia: Sleep deprivation can have lasting side-effects, many of which are long-term and can harm your body. More commonly, people that are sleep deprived find they have difficulty working, concentrating and feel irritable and angry. Statistical evidence provided by the CDC suggests people that do not get enough sleep are more at risk for motor vehicle or auto accidents. You may also find you have memory loss or fall asleep during the day while watching television or engaging in other activities that require little action or energy.
What to Do If You Suspect You Suffer From Sleep Deprivation: If you feel you have sleep deprivation or may suffer from insomnia or a related sleep disorder, seek help from a medical professional. To assess how sleepy you are, try taking the "Epworth Sleepiness Scale", a tool often used by researchers to find out how sleepy patients really are and whether they need medical care. You should call your doctor and schedule an appointment to discuss your health and overall medical history. Your doctor will work with you to rule out other diseases or underlying medical conditions that may cause sleep deprivation.