Sleep Deprivation and Neurological Disorders

This review highlights the critical effects of sleep deprivation (SD) on brain health and neurological disorders. SD impairs the clearance of harmful proteins like amyloid-beta, contributing to Alzheimer’s disease, and disrupts neural circuits and memory functions. It aggravates inflammation, oxidative stress, and cognitive deficits in conditions such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s, and stroke. SD also impedes neurogenesis and myelin repair, worsening symptoms in neurodegenerative diseases. Addressing SD is essential to mitigate its role in brain disorders, maintain cognitive function, and support overall neurological health.

Maintain consistent, restorative sleep by establishing a routine, limiting screen time before bed, and managing stress. These changes can protect brain health and reduce risks associated with SD, such as impaired memory, inflammation, and neurodegeneration. While the evidence is based on various studies linking SD to neurological disorders, controlled trials are needed to refine sleep recommendations for specific conditions.