It's not uncommon in our day and age that people are not getting the required amount of sleep. This is caused not just because of our lifestyle but also work pressure, stress and various other reasons leading to lack of sleep. However, it is doing you more damage than you know. Lack of sleep can have serious short-term and long-term effects on health including a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases and Alzheimer's.
Doctors say, while short-term effects include lack of focus, irritability and lower productivity, long-term effects range from mild weight gain and memory distortions to an increased risk of bowel, prostate and breast cancers. A growing concern among doctors is the rising incidences of sleep disorders among the urban population. "Not getting ample hours of sleep a day is also a growing cause of road accidents," said Dr Vishwanath Gella, a consultant pulmonologist at Continental Hospitals. "In western countries, sleep tests are mandatory for drivers of heavy vehicles- this must be done in India as well, where the incidence of sleep disorders is on the rise. People not only develop uncontrolled diabetes and hypertension due to lack of sleep, but are also at risk of suffering brain strokes and heart failures," Dr Gella said.
Vijay Kumar Chennamchetty, a consultant pulmonologist and sleep disorder specialist at Apollo Hosipals identified consumption of alcohol and smoking as two primary reasons for the rising number of patients with sleep disorders in the twin cities. "Memory distortions can have impacts like an increased risk of Alzheimer's . In Hyderabad, alcohol consumption is the top cause of sleep aponea. Lack of regular exercise is the reason for such ailments," said Dr Chennamcherry.
Well, if you aren't getting your required hours of sleep, we suggest you visit a specialist and sort the matter out STAT.
