Signs your lack of sleep could be a serious health risk Struggling to sleep or stay asleep is a common issue that affects millions of people. But even though it's a normal issue to have, it pays to be aware of the symptoms that can indicate your usual restlessness is a problem Struggling to concentrate might be a sign you're not sleeping enough (Image: (Image: Getty) ) Struggling to sleep or stay asleep is a common issue that affects millions of people. However, it's important to be aware of the symptoms that could indicate your usual restlessness is more than just a minor inconvenience. ‌ According to sleep expert Dr Deborah Lee from Dr Fox Online Pharmacy and Bed Factory Direct, chronic sleep deprivation can have serious implications for your physical and mental health. Article continues below She stated: "Many people think of sleep as something that can be compromised or 'caught up on later,' but chronic sleep deprivation can take a serious toll on your health." Dr Lee highlighted several key signs to watch out for - if you experience any of them, it might be time to seek professional advice. The first sign is chronic fatigue - which goes beyond just feeling a bit sleepy, reports the Express. ‌ She explained: "If you're consistently feeling tired during the day, even after getting what should be enough sleep, it could signal a more serious underlying problem. "Chronic fatigue can be a symptom of sleep disorders such as sleep apnoea or narcolepsy, which prevent restful, restorative sleep, leaving you feeling exhausted even after a full night's sleep." A second symptom to be aware of is difficulty focusing during the day. ‌ Brain fog, memory loss or forgetfulness are significant warning signs that you're not getting enough sleep. This is because when people don't get sufficient sleep, the brain can't consolidate memories or perform essential functions which over time, can lead to concentration difficulties and impaired decision making. Another perilous risk of inadequate sleep is daytime accidents. ‌ Dr Lee warned: "If you're experiencing sleep-related issues such as falling asleep during the day, sleepwalking, or even nodding off while driving, it's crucial to seek immediate professional help. "These symptoms could signify a serious sleep disorder like sleep apnoea, which can affect your safety as well as your overall health." Mood swings can also indicate that your sleep schedule needs attention. ‌ Dr Lee said: "Sleep deprivation doesn't just affect your energy – it impacts your emotions, too. If you're finding yourself increasingly irritable, anxious, or depressed, it could be a sign that your body isn't getting the quality sleep it needs to regulate mood." Lack of sleep can interfere with the brain's ability to process emotions, leading to mood swings and heightened stress. "If you find that you're frequently waking up in the night, this is another sign you need help, according to Dr Lee who said: "Struggling to fall asleep or waking up multiple times throughout the night is another red flag. "The worry is that these sleep disturbances, particularly when they persist for several weeks, may be indicative of conditions like insomnia, anxiety, or even depression." ‌ If you continue to struggle with your sleep schedule over time, you might notice a rise in other health issues - another red flag that the situation is spiralling out of control. Dr Lee said: "Long-term sleep deprivation is linked to an increased risk of chronic health conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. "If you're already grappling with any of these conditions and your sleep quality is poor, it's crucial to seek assistance from a healthcare professional. Article continues below "Sleep plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health, and poor sleep can exacerbate existing conditions."