We've all heard about the dangers of drunk driving and distracted driving, but there's another silent menace on the road - sleep-deprived driving. In India, over the last decade, many deaths have been attributed to road accidents. According to a World Bank report, 13 lakh people died in the country due to road accidents and 50 lakh people got injured due to it.
"There are many reasons which might lead to an accident, and sleep deprivation caused due to sleep disorders might be one of them," shared Dr Sibasish Dey, Head, Medical Affairs, South Asia, ResMed while talking to the team of OnlyMyHealth.
Sleep Disorders That Increase Risk Of Road Accidents
"To be able to drive safely and avoid the risk of road accidents, apart from following traffic rules, one has to be attentive and focused behind the wheel," commented Dr Dey.
"Driving while fatigued significantly increases the likelihood of vehicular accidents. Due to this impairment, a person is less aware of their surroundings and is more susceptible to distractions," he added. Certain sleep disorders can cause long-term sleep deprivation, which in turn diminishes your cognitive abilities and focus:
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): OSA is characterised by constant starting and ceasing of breath due to narrowing of the airway.
- Insomnia: People with insomnia often experience sleepless nights due to difficulty falling or staying asleep, leaving them fatigued and sleep-deprived during the day.
- Narcolepsy: Narcolepsy is a neurological disorder that causes sudden, uncontrollable sleep attacks. Individuals with narcolepsy may fall asleep without warning, even while driving.
- Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS): RLS is a condition characterised by uncomfortable sensations in the legs, often accompanied by an irresistible urge to move them.
Preventing Sleep-Related Road Accidents
As per an Indian study titled 'Causes of accident on Mumbai-Pune Expressway,' out of 170 road traffic accident victims in the Mumbai-Pune expressway, it was found that 34.22% reported sleep fatigue as a responsible factor. In another study from Tamil Nadu titled 'OSA and reaction time in commercial vehicle drivers- an exploratory study,' out of 227 commercial vehicle drivers, 35% of the drivers were at risk for OSA. Drivers with a high risk of OSA showed reduced auditory reaction time. This highlights the significance and real-life atrocities that can be caused due to sleep deprivation.
"Proper and sound sleep enhances one’s life experiences and also ensures that the person is mindful during important tasks such as driving. Lack of proper driving could cost a person their life, and for how precious life is, all efforts should be made to ensure that the person is well rested while driving," expressed Dr Dey. He listed a set of steps that people can practice in order to remain attentive while driving:
- Avoid medication and drinking before driving, to avoid feeling drowsy and ensure better decision-making on the road.
- If you suspect suffering from a sleep disorder, get a proper diagnosis immediately.
- Take periodic breaks during long drives to avoid fatigue and road hypnosis.
- Practice relaxation tactics to remain calm and alleviate stress or anxiety that have the potential to further exacerbate sleep deprivation.
- Get adequate sleep. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night.
In conclusion, sleep deprivation is a serious risk factor for road accidents. Understanding the impact of sleep deprivation on driving performance and recognising the signs of sleep disorders can save lives. We all know about the dangers of drinking and driving. Similarly, it is essential to raise awareness about the dangers of sleep deprivation and driving as well. So prioritise quality sleep, seek medical attention when necessary, encourage your friends and family to be aware of this silent threat on the roads, and always stay vigilant on the road to ensure your safety and the safety of others. Remember, a well-rested driver is a responsible driver.