"Sleep is not a luxury—it's a necessity for your overall health," says Kelly L. Coleman, MSN, APRN, AGCNS-BC, with the Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) team at ARC Far West Medical Tower and ARC South 1st Specialty and Pediatrics in Austin. "When you don't get enough rest, it can have a profound impact on both your body and mind. Poor sleep affects cognitive function, weakens the immune system, and increases the risk of serious health conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, stroke, and obesity. Prioritizing quality sleep is one of the best things you can do for your long-term well-being."
How poor sleep affects your overall health
- Poor sleep and cognitive function: During REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, your brain processes information and forms memories. When you don't get enough sleep, you may have trouble concentrating, making decisions, and remembering things. A disrupted rhythm can make daily tasks feel overwhelming.
- Poor sleep and mood: Lack of rest can lead to psychological stress, irritability, and increased risk of depression. A solid sleep routine helps stabilize your mood and reduce anxiety.
- Poor sleep and energy levels: Feeling exhausted after a rough night? Poor sleep makes it harder to get through the day, leaving you drained and sluggish. Long-term sleep deprivation can make even simple activities feel exhausting.
- Poor sleep and the immune system: Your body repairs and strengthens itself while you sleep. Without enough rest, your immune system weakens, making you more susceptible to illness.
- Poor sleep and the cardiovascular system: Chronic sleep deprivation increases the risks of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease. Poor sleep affects blood flow and heart function, raising the chance of serious health problems.
- Poor sleep and chronic disease: Long-term sleep deprivation has been linked to diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, and other chronic conditions. Without enough REM sleep, your body struggles to regulate hormones, metabolism, and stress responses.
Improve your sleep for better health
"If you're struggling with sleep, consulting an ENT doctor or APC can help uncover any underlying issues," says Kelly. "Establishing a healthy sleep routine is one of the most effective ways to protect your overall health and minimize the impact of poor sleep on your body and mind."
Make an appointment today
Kelly is accepting new patients ages 17 and older. To make an appointment, call ARC Far West Medical Tower at 512-346-8888 or ARC South 1st Specialty and Pediatrics at 512-443-1311.