Can a lack of sleep make you sick?

As the holiday season approaches a lot of us are burning the midnight oil. On top of sleeping less than usual, it’s flu season and some of us may be feeling worn down. Maybe your mother used to tell you as a child to get a good night’s sleep when you were feeling sick. Maybe she was onto something.

How far can we push ourselves before our immune systems are affected? Can a lack of sleep make us sick?

The short answer is yes, lack of sleep can affect your immune system. 

Studies show that people who don't get quality sleep are more likely to get sick after being exposed to a virus, such as a common cold virus. Lack of sleep can also affect how fast you recover if you do get sick. During sleep, your immune system releases proteins called cytokines, some of which help promote sleep. Certain cytokines need to increase when you have an infection or inflammation, or when you're under stress. Sleep deprivation may decrease production of these protective cytokines. In addition, infection-fighting antibodies and cells are reduced during periods when you don't get enough sleep.

So, your body needs sleep to fight infectious diseases. 

Long-term lack of sleep also increases your risk of obesity, diabetes, and heart and cardiovascular disease. But how much sleep do you need to bolster your immune system? The optimal amount of sleep for most adults is seven to nine hours of good sleep each night. But more sleep isn't always better. For adults, sleeping more than nine to 10 hours a night may result in a poor quality of sleep, such as difficulty falling or staying asleep.

As the holiday season approaches, remember to prioritize sleep so you can enjoy time with loved ones and be the healthiest you possible. If you’re having trouble sleeping come see us! Take this form to your doctor - sleep studies at 100% covered by OHIP.