HEADACHES, a loss of focus, irritability and a terrible day. These are some of the consequences of a sleepless night. But can sleep deprivation actually be a contributing factor leading to death?
Verdict:
TRUE
Have you ever been so deprived of sleep that you feel like you’re going to die?
Well, that isn't too far from the truth as yes, we can die from sleep deprivation.
According to a 2018 literature review published in the journal Healthcare, a lack of sleep demonstrably increases the risk of premature death.
Researchers examined relevant data and found that people getting fewer than six hours of sleep each night were at 10 times more risk of premature death than those sleeping seven to nine hours nightly.
Additionally, evidence also suggests that insufficient sleep is the cause of a host of diseases and mental health issues.
Cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity and mental health problems are some of the consequences of insufficient sleep.
Sleep allows your body to clear toxins and repair damage to maintain healthy functioning. Over time, if you don't get enough sleep, the biological consequences affect many aspects of your body, mind and mood.
Apart from these ailments, being sleep-deprived increases every other risk we face, such as the risk of accidents.
So yes, sleep deprivation can be a contributing factor leading to injury and death.
References:
https://www.verywellhealth.com/can-sleep-deprivation-cause-your-death-3015067
https://www.webmd.com/connect-to-care/sleep-apnea/can-sleep-deprivation-kill-you
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dqONk48l5vY&ab_channel=TED-Ed
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