Symptom 7. Impaired Immune Function: The Body’s Defense Goes Down
Sleep deprivation not only affects our mental and physical well-being but also compromises our immune system’s ability to protect us from illness and infection. Impaired immune function is a significant symptom of sleep deprivation, often resulting in increased susceptibility to various diseases. In this section, we explore the relationship between sleep deprivation and the immune system, highlighting the potential consequences for our overall health.
Adequate sleep is crucial for maintaining a robust immune system. During sleep, our body undergoes essential processes that support immune function, including the production of immune cells and the release of cytokines, which are proteins that help regulate immune responses. However, when we experience sleep deprivation, these processes are disrupted, leading to a decline in immune function.
One key aspect of immune function affected by sleep deprivation is the body’s ability to produce and distribute immune cells. Natural killer cells, which play a vital role in identifying and destroying viruses and cancer cells, are particularly impacted. When we lack sufficient sleep, the production of these cells decreases, compromising our body’s defense mechanisms. This leaves us more susceptible to infections, including respiratory viruses like the common cold and flu. (7)
