Lack of sleep can lead to memory loss from an early age, say experts at Fortis Escorts Hospital Amritsar

Lack of sleep can lead to memory loss from an early age, say experts at Fortis Escorts Hospital Amritsar 

  Amritsar, February 2024: Studies have shown that lack of sleep or insufficient sleep is linked to the degeneration of the hippocampus cells, which are vital for memory and learning. Sleep is crucial for maintaining both our physical and mental health. However, in today's fast-paced world, most of us prioritize work and socializing over proper sleep, leading to various sleep-related ailments Lifestyle choices such as binge-watching or working late, particularly among the younger generation, has resulted in major disruption in sleep patterns. Additionally, night shifts and certain medical conditions, like insomnia and sleep apnoea, can further disrupt the body's natural circadian rhythms, exacerbating sleep loss. 

Dr. Manik Mahajan, Senior Consultant Neurology, Fortis Escorts Hospital Amritsar, said, “Good sleep is essential for the development, growth, and health of the brain. It is important to get four to six full sleep cycles per night to wake up feeling rested. Your sleep quality may be poor if, even after ten hours of sleep, you still feel exhausted when you wake up. Setting up a regular schedule, promoting a sleep-friendly atmosphere by reducing light, noise, and electronic device use, keeping a pleasant room temperature, and following good sleep hygiene procedures are all part of prioritizing sleep. To further improve the quality of your sleep, develop healthy habits like cutting out caffeine and stimulating activities before bed, and some relaxing exercises before bedtime. It is advisable to seek professional guidance when dealing with sleep disorders." 

Effect of sleep deprivation on brain health: 

• Cognitive impairment: This includes a shortened attention span, a slower rate of reaction, and trouble in making decisions. 
• Changes in mood: Sleep deprivation can lead to heightened emotional responses, mood swings, and increased irritation. 
• Physical Effects: These may include immune system deterioration, fatigue, and eye strain. 
• Memory problems: Sleep deprivation can affect our memory, resulting in forgetfulness. 
• Weak immunity: Not getting enough sleep makes it harder for our body to fight off viruses, increasing the risk of illnesses, like the flu and common cold. 
• Diabetes risk: Sleep deprivation impacts your body's ability to release insulin, a hormone that lowers blood sugar, increasing the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes and having higher blood sugar levels. 
• Weight gain: Lack of sleep disrupts the molecules that regulate appetite, increasing the chance of overeating even after consuming enough. 
• Heart disease risk: Sleep deprivation can raise blood pressure and levels of chemicals associated with inflammation, both of which are factors in heart disease.