Evaluation of Sympathetic Function and Anxiety Levels in Sleep-Deprived Subjects Compared to the Normal Population: A...

Background  Sleep deprivation is associated with autonomic imbalance and psychological disturbances. This study aimed to evaluate sympathetic function and anxiety levels in sleep-deprived individuals compared with controls. Methods A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 110 participants aged 18-40 years, divided into sleep-deprived (n = 55) and well-rested (n = 55) groups based on Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index scores. Sympathetic activity was assessed using cold pressor and isometric handgrip tests, and anxiety was measured using the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) scale. Results  Sleep-deprived participants demonstrated significantly higher basal heart rate (79.19 ± 4.23 vs. 71.20 ± 4.30 bpm), systolic blood pressure (125.11 ± 4.76 vs. 117.00 ± 3.93 mmHg), and diastolic blood pressure (79.50 ± 7.50 vs. 74.00 ± 7.00 mmHg; p < 0.001). Sympathetic reactivity was greater in the cold pressor test (10.92 ± 2.20 vs. 4.20 ± 2.34 mmHg; p < 0.001) and handgrip test (11.36 ± 2.53 vs. 3.94 ± 2.46 mmHg; p < 0.001) in the sleep-deprived group. Anxiety scores were also elevated (13.50 vs. 4.00; p < 0.001) in individuals with sleep deprivation compared with the well-rested group. Conclusion  Sleep deprivation significantly increases sympathetic activity and anxiety, highlighting the importance of adequate sleep in preventing cardiovascular and psychological risks.