Sleep Deprivation Directory
The average adult needs 7 to 8 hours of sleep per night. Teens need about 9. When you get less sleep than you need, your body does not just "adapt," but rather you may begin to experience symptoms of sleep deprivation. Your judgment and reaction time may slow, you may experience memory loss, depression, a weakened immune system, and pain. It can be especially dangerous to drive when you're sleep deprived since focusing and keeping your eyes open can become difficult. Follow the links below to find WebMD's comprehensive coverage about how sleep deprivation affects your body, how much sleep you need, how to get more sleep, and much more.
Medical Reference
Features
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The Healing Power of Sleep
Sleep deprivation is linked to heart disease, diabetes, poor immune systems, poor mental health, and even obesity. Find out how sleep keeps your body healthy.
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Sleep Loss Affects Women More Than Men
New research shows that when women lose sleep they're at higher risk for diabetes, heart disease, and depression.
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Why seniors are often sleep deprived
What you need to know about seniors and shut eye.
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Moms and Sleep Deprivation
Sleep experts say sleep-deprived mothers shouldn't be blasé about their problem. Sleep deprivation can harm their health – and the health of their family.