Sleep Disturbances Associated with Different Systems of the Body: Underlying Mechanisms Involved and Consequences

Sleep is necessary for long-term health and well-being. Sleep is divided into the rapid eye movement (REM), and non-rapid eye movement (NREM) stages. The normal sleep pattern follows a 90-minute cycle, and within those cycles, the body undergoes a regenerative state, restoring various components used daily. A sleep disorder can be due to multiple factors, i.e., genetic, environmental, and individual factors. Short and long-term effects of sleep deprivation can have harmful effects. The immune system requires sufficient sleep to maintain optimal function, and sleep deprivation leads to the release of proinflammatory cytokines, which dysregulate the function of the immune system. Sleep deprivation affects the central nervous system, resulting in cognitive impairments and diseases related to decreased prefrontal cortex activity. Sleep disturbance affects the hypothalamus, secreting corticotrophin-releasing hormone, which results in the release of adrenocorticotropic hormone. This leads to the secretion of cortisol and catecholamines. Sleep disturbance causes reduced muscle glycogen concentration and gives rise to various gastrointestinal problems. Sleep disturbance affects the cardiovascular system which results in hypertension, cardiac ischemia, congestive cardiac failure, and arrhythmia. Sleep disturbances affect the endocrine system leading to insulin resistance, obesity, and metabolic syndrome. Interestingly, treatment of obstructive sleep apnea with continuous positive airway pressure was found to enhance metabolic status. We discuss the pharmacological, non-pharmacological, and surgical treatment options for sleep disorders. Understanding the mechanism of sleep disturbance and its association with different systems of the body may help in better treatment outcomes.