4 warning signs of sleep deprivation

Sleeping helps the body repair and rejuvenate the cells, which helps an individual stay energetic and free from health complications. Each individual must get between seven and eight hours of sleep daily. That said, given people’s busy lives, thousands do not meet the daily criteria for rest. Such individuals may suffer from multiple complications due to a lack of sleep. Here are four warning signs of sleep deprivation to look out for:

Reduced cognitive function
Getting the right amount of rest helps the brain generate new connections between the nerve cells, improve focus and productivity, and analyze and process information. So if one finds trouble with any of these functions, they might experience sleep deprivation. Lack of sleep may result in brain exhaustion and impair cognitive function. One should get this diagnosed by an expert because a sleep-deprived brain can affect day-to-day functioning.

Decreased immune system
The body is prone to illnesses, including a cold, cough, and headache. However, if the symptoms occur on multiple occasions or are chronic, that could indicate a weakened immune system. The body revitalizes and repairs itself during sleep. Lack of proper rest could prevent the restoration of cells, which may deteriorate one’s immunity. Furthermore, insufficient rest could make one susceptible to infections and hamper recovery.

Increased fatigue
One may feel fatigued after a long day at work, after strenuous physical activity, or due to an illness. However, if they experience this symptom without any underlying condition, it might indicate the onset of sleep deprivation. The body needs ample rest to recharge and stay alert the following day. So the lack of proper rest may result in fatigue, leading to a lack of motivation to carry out tasks, low productivity levels, and reduced interest in socialization.

Mood swings
A lack of sleep could affect an individual’s emotional health and lead to severe mood swings. It could also trigger instability, overreactive behavior, and irritability. These symptoms could make it difficult to cope with complex or regular situations. One should see an expert if they suffer from these symptoms, as prolonged emotional disturbances could lead to severe mental and physical complications.