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M05.08.02 Sleep Deprivation
Sleep deprivation, particularly after one night of insufficient sleep, significantly affects the brain and body. The cerebral cortex, responsible for many high-level functions such as decision-making and problem-solving, experiences the greatest impact. However, the brain has some capacity to cope with short-term sleep loss. Below are key physiological and psychological changes observed in sleep-deprived individuals.
Key Physiological and Psychological Changes
- Cortisol Levels: Elevated cortisol, a stress hormone, is seen in sleep-deprived individuals. This can contribute to increased stress and anxiety.
- Blood Pressure: Sleep deprivation raises blood pressure, which can elevate the risk of cardiovascular problems.
- Glucose Tolerance: Reduced glucose tolerance is a common outcome, increasing the risk for insulin resistance and possibly leading to type 2 diabetes over time.
- Amygdala Activation: The amygdala, a region involved in emotional processing, becomes more reactive, leading to heightened emotional responses such as anger or fear.
- Prefrontal Cortex Activity: The prefrontal cortex, which governs executive functions like decision-making and emotional regulation, shows reduced activity. This can impair judgment and increase impulsivity.
- Mood: Increased negative mood, irritability, and emotional instability are typical psychological consequences of sleep deprivation.
Table: Physiological and Psychological Changes in Sleep-Deprived Individuals
| Change | Effect of Sleep Deprivation |
|---|---|
| Cortisol Levels | Elevated, leading to higher stress levels |
| Blood Pressure | Increased, posing a risk to cardiovascular health |
| Glucose Tolerance | Reduced, raising the risk of insulin resistance |
| Amygdala Activation | Greater, resulting in heightened emotional responses |
| Prefrontal Cortex Activity | Lowered, affecting decision-making and impulse control |
| Mood | Increased negative mood, leading to irritability and emotional instability |
Points to Remember
- The cerebral cortex is heavily impacted by sleep deprivation but can manage short-term sleep loss.
- Elevated cortisol and blood pressure increase stress and cardiovascular risk.
- Reduced glucose tolerance may lead to long-term metabolic issues such as diabetes.
- The amygdala becomes more reactive, while the prefrontal cortex’s functioning decreases, affecting emotional regulation and decision-making.
- Sleep deprivation results in mood disturbances, including irritability and increased negative emotional responses.
Bibliography Reference Links
- Walker, M. (2017). Why We Sleep: Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams. New York: Scribner.
- Banks, S., & Dinges, D. F. (2007). Behavioral and physiological consequences of sleep restriction. Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, 3(5), 519-528.
- Van Dongen, H. P. A., Maislin, G., Mullington, J. M., & Dinges, D. F. (2003). The cumulative cost of additional wakefulness: Dose-response effects on neurobehavioral functions and sleep physiology from chronic sleep restriction and total sleep deprivation. Sleep, 26(2), 117-126.