Sleep apnea and the immune system

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There are some things that we just can’t do without, such as air, water, and food (especially air!), but there is something else we have to have: sleep. Our bodies need to rest to recover our energy, and sleep also helps with our nervous system.
Too little sleep leaves us drowsy and unable to concentrate the next day. It also leads to impaired memory and physical performance and reduced ability to carry out math calculations. If sleep deprivation continues, hallucinations and mood swings may develop. Some experts believe sleep gives neurons used while we are awake a chance to shut down and repair themselves.

Sleep deprivation can also affect our immune system, which protects us from getting ill. While we sleep, our bodies not only grow cells but also repair them.

Sleep disruption affects the immune system much like stress does. A study in the Netherlands and Britain compared the blood counts of 15 young men in normal and sleep-deprived situations. Sleep deprivation affects the white blood cells, similar to stress.

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Location: Atlanta, GA, USA

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