Sleep Deprivation Disorder and Drugs Essay Example
Sleep Deprivation Disorder and Drugs Essay Example

Sleep Deprivation Disorder and Drugs Essay Example

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  • Pages: 2 (423 words)
  • Published: May 3, 2017
  • Type: Essay
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Getting sufficient sleep is essential for maintaining our overall well-being, including both physical and mental health.

Having gone without sleep for 12 consecutive hours during a school project about two months ago, I learned from my personal experience the significance of getting enough rest.

In an effort to stay focused and alert as my project deadline approached, I resorted to consuming cookies, chips, and copious amounts of coffee. However, due to a severe lack of sleep, I found myself feeling drowsy during my school bus commute. Although arriving at class early was important, the temptation to return home for some rest loomed large.

As a result of my insufficient rest, I experienced difficulty staying alert and frequently dozed off in comfortable settings such as school chairs or even my professor's desk. My participation and energy levels

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in class were diminished, and I struggled with leg cramps, loss of appetite, and stomach issues due to eating at irregular hours. These symptoms were just the start of the negative consequences brought about by my sleep deprivation.

After returning home, my behavior towards my younger brother changed drastically. Despite being known as a gentle sister, I became irritable and quick-tempered with him. Even minor infractions resulted in shouting and physical force. Additionally, completing simple household tasks assigned by my mother left me fatigued. People began to comment on my haggard appearance and dark circles around my eyes, which reflected the declining state of my health at the time.

As I looked in the mirror, I noted that my physical appearance was not optimal. My hair was oily, my skin dry and I needed a bath urgently. This was all due to lack of

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sleep which resulted in impaired cognitive function, speech difficulties, problems with motor skills and perception along with personality changes over time.

Sleep deprivation can have negative effects on mood, including fatigue, sleepiness, and confusion. It can also weaken the immune system and make individuals more susceptible to disease. Chronic sleep deprivation may even lead to death within six years for those who sleep less than four hours per night. Weight gain is another potential consequence of various types of sleeping disorders caused by medication side effects, environmental factors, physical or psychological illnesses, changes in routine or travel (circadian rhythm), insomnia, and parasomnias.

To treat morning drowsiness associated with these conditions, antihistamines like diphenhydramine or benzodiazepines can be used alongside Rozerem. The latter helps promote natural sleep patterns by increasing melatonin levels - a hormone-based medicine that regulates internal sleep ("Sleeping Disorders," 2007; Ledoux, 2008; Lim & Dinges, 2007).

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