Loss of Sleep/ Insomnia/sleep deprivation

Sleep deprivation or insomnia is a general lack of the necessary amount of sleep. It varies from restless or disturbed sleep to a reduction in the usual time spent sleeping and, in the extreme, may involve complete wakefulness.This may occur as a result of sleep disorders, active choice or deliberate inducement such as in interrogation or for torture.

Loss of sleep, even for a few short hours during the night, can prompt one’s immune system to turn against healthy tissue and organs.

Insomnia can take a variety of forms:

• difficulty falling asleep (initial insomnia)
• difficulty staying asleep
• early wakening

Causes of Insomnia:

• Many elderly people typically sleep lightly and fitfully.
• Some people are kept awake by painful conditions such as arthritis, others are disturbed by the need to urinate frequently or by leg cramps.
• Sleeplessness is also common during pregnancy, especially in the later weeks.
• Previous arguments with family members
• Watching exciting programs on television late at night
• Consuming caffeine (found in tea, coffee or cola drinks), large amounts of alcohol or a large meal close to bedtime
• In most cases, however, the core problem is emotional.

Physiological effects

• aching muscles
• hallucinations
• hand tremors
• irritability
• memory lapses or loss
• severe yawning
• temper [tantrum]s in children
• symptoms similar to: Attention-deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

Other effects:

• Diabetes
• Effects on the brain
• Effects on growth
• Effects on the healing process
• Impairment of ability
• Obesity