Struggling with sleepless nights? CMC Vellore neurologist reveals the hidden risk to your brain

Persistent sleep problems are often dismissed as a minor inconvenience, but emerging medical evidence shows they may carry serious risks for brain health. Chronic insomnia, defined as difficulty sleeping at least three nights a week for three months or longer, has now been linked to higher chances of memory decline and dementia.

Dr. Sudhir Kumar, senior neurologist at Christian Medical College (CMC) Vellore and Apollo Hospitals Hyderabad, highlighted these findings in a recent post on X. He referred to a new study published in Neurology (2025), which sheds light on how poor sleep can accelerate brain aging and damage.

Insomnia and dementia risk

According to the study, individuals with chronic insomnia were nearly 40 percent more likely to develop memory loss or dementia compared to those who had regular, restorative sleep. Researchers also found that the cognitive effect of long-term sleep deprivation was similar to the brain aging an additional three and a half years.

Brain imaging from the study revealed a higher build-up of amyloid plaques, proteins commonly associated with Alzheimer’s disease, as well as increased small-vessel damage among those struggling with insomnia. These changes can impair memory, reasoning, and overall cognitive functions over time.

🚨 Poor sleep negatively impacts cognitive functions

A new study in Neurology shows:
1. People with chronic insomnia (trouble sleeping ≥3 nights/week for ≥3 months) were ~40% more likely to develop memory loss or dementia.
2. The effect of chronic insomnia is like being 3.5… pic.twitter.com/UVX5M5mlYw

— Dr Sudhir Kumar MD DM (@hyderabaddoctor) September 13, 2025

The research also examined whether sleep medications could offset the neurological risks. Findings suggested that these drugs did not offer clear protection against long-term brain damage. This underscores the importance of addressing the root causes of insomnia rather than relying solely on medication.

Protecting brain health through better sleep

Dr. Kumar emphasized that sleep should be considered just as essential for health as heart care. He advised maintaining regular sleep routines and seeking medical help if insomnia persists for several weeks. Healthy sleep habits, according to him, are not just about feeling rested but also about protecting memory and preventing future cognitive decline.

The Neurology study makes a strong case for prioritizing quality sleep as a vital component of long-term brain health. While modern lifestyles often compromise rest, experts stress that consistent, restorative sleep could be one of the most effective defenses against memory loss and dementia. As Dr. Kumar pointed out, taking care of sleep today may safeguard brain function tomorrow.