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Short-term sleep deprivation and human thermoregulatory function during thermal challenges
Michail E Keramidas1, Petros G Botonis2
1Division of Environmental Physiology, Swedish Aerospace Physiology Center, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Solna, Sweden.
Experimental Physiology
|March 21, 2021
Summary
Sleep deprivation impairs the body's ability to regulate temperature during extreme heat or cold. More research is needed to confirm if insufficient sleep increases the risk of cold- and heat-related illnesses.
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Environmental Health
- Sleep Science
Background:
- Sleep deprivation causes physiological and psychological disturbances, impacting performance.
- It is widely accepted that sleep loss disrupts thermal homeostasis.
- This may increase susceptibility to illnesses related to cold and heat exposure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review human evidence on sleep deprivation's effects on thermoregulation.
- To identify knowledge gaps regarding sleep loss and thermal injury risk.
- To stimulate research on sleep deprivation as a predisposing factor for thermal injuries.
Main Methods:
- This is a narrative review of existing human-based evidence.
- Focuses on short-term sleep deprivation (≤4 nights).
- Examines autonomic and behavioral thermoeffectors during acute thermal challenges.
Main Results:
- Limited to moderate evidence indicates sleep deprivation impairs thermoregulatory defenses.
- Sleep loss affects the body's response to both low and high ambient temperatures.
- Current evidence suggests a potential link between sleep deprivation and impaired thermoregulation.
Conclusions:
- Sleep deprivation may compromise the body's ability to cope with thermal extremes.
- Further research is necessary to definitively establish if inadequate sleep heightens the risk of cold- and heat-related illnesses.
- Understanding this relationship is crucial for public health and safety.
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