Insomnia side effects, even from occasional insomnia, are usually immediate and profound. The most common insomnia side effects include fatigue, low energy levels, difficulty concentrating, and mood changes such as irritability, anxiety, or depression. Other side effects from insomnia affect the body, and may cause weight gain or increased levels of stress hormones such as cortisol in the body, which can potentially lead to heart disease.
Put simply, insomnia side effects cause the sufferer to feel tired and sluggish throughout the day. In addition to just feeling sleepy, insomnia can make it difficult to concentrate at work or while performing other tasks such as driving; this could potentially be dangerous to the person suffering insomnia or others. It can be challenging for the sufferer to make decisions or focus on work, and reflexes will start to slow down. Low energy levels may also prevent the person from exercising, which can also lead to weight gain and make it more difficult to sleep at night, perpetuating the cycle.
Another one of the more common insomnia side effects is mood changes. People who do not get enough rest at night are often irritable the next day, with low levels of patience. Anxiety and stress levels are often high, which can lead to feelings of sadness or depression. Usually, the person's mood will improve after catching up on sleep, but persistent insomnia could potentially cause episodes of clinical depression.
Sleeping at night helps the body to repair itself; when sleep is not achieved, body processes such as metabolism can begin to slow down. This can lead to increased appetite and marked weight gain. In addition, a person's appearance may suffer, as skin and hair may take on a slightly dull appearance. If insomnia persists, these insomnia side effects can have a lasting impact on the sufferer's life and relationships. It may be difficult for people with insomnia to keep a job or maintain a steady relationship, because they are frequently so tired and may have volatile moods.
Everyone experiences insomnia at some point, but if it becomes a persistent problem, it is a good idea to visit a doctor for evaluation. In addition, distractions, such as televisions, should be removed from the bedroom, and people should try to go to bed at the same time every night and wake up at the same time each morning. Some people find that stopping eating or exercising a few hours before bed helps them to relax and get a better night's sleep on a regular basis.