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MedlinePlus noted that there is a connection between sleep deprivation and a weakened immune system. Individuals who are sleep deprived due to an untreated sleep disorder may have a harder time fighting infections, as their immune system’s ability are decreased.
Impaired Functioning
Individuals who go untreated for sleep disorders may find that they have increasing trouble performing everyday functions. For example, patients with narcolepsy may have difficulty functioning at work, which can affect work performance, according to MedlinePlus. Besides affecting work productivity and performance, untreated narcolepsy can impair patients’ social activities.
If you have been experiencing sleep difficulties for more than three nights a week for longer than one month, have a change in your quality of life from sleeping trouble, or have symptoms such as shortness of breath, talk to your health care provider.
References
MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. Sleeping Difficulty. Web. 8 March 2012
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003210.htm
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Brain Basics: Understanding Sleep. Web. 8 March 2012
http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/brain_basics/understanding_sleep.htm
MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. Narcolepsy. Web. 8 March 2012
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000802.htm
MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. Insomnia. Web. 8 March 2012
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000805.htm
MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Web. 8 March 2012
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000811.htm
Reviewed March 8, 2012
by Michele Blacksberg RN
Edited by Jody Smith
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