Krystle D’Souza reveals she once worked for ’60 hours non-stop’; find out how it affects the body

D’Souza, who made her Bollywood debut with Chehre, acknowledged that while the experience was gruelling, it ultimately made her stronger and more resilient. 

But, what happens to the human body when it endures such prolonged stress without rest? Dr Palleti Siva Karthik Reddy, MBBS, MD, general physician at Koshys Hospital, Bengaluru, sheds light on the severe consequences of prolonged work without rest.

Immediate physical effects on the body when someone works for 60 hours without sufficient rest

Dr Reddy explains, “Working for 60 hours non-stop can take a severe toll on the body. The most immediate effects include fatigue, muscle aches, and dehydration, all of which can lead to physical exhaustion. Without proper rest, the body doesn’t have the chance to recover or repair itself, which is why fainting, as Krystle D’Souza experienced, is a common outcome.”

He adds, “Prolonged periods of wakefulness also cause the body’s cortisol levels (a stress hormone) to spike, leading to increased blood pressure and heart rate, both of which heighten the risk of cardiovascular strain.”

Dr Reddy also highlights the impact on the immune system. “The body’s natural defenses weaken, making the individual more susceptible to infections and illness. In fact, studies have shown that extended hours of work with little rest can weaken immune responses, leaving the body vulnerable to conditions like colds, flu, and other infections.”

Practicing mindfulness or deep-breathing exercises during breaks can help reduce stress and maintain emotional well-being. (Source: Freepik)

How does sleep deprivation impact cognitive function and decision-making?

According to Dr Reddy, “Sleep deprivation significantly diminishes cognitive function. After even 24 hours without sleep, the brain’s ability to process information, solve problems, and make decisions begins to deteriorate rapidly. After 48-60 hours of sleep deprivation, studies show that cognitive performance can be equivalent to that of someone with a blood alcohol level of 0.1%, which is above the legal limit for driving in many countries.”

In high-stress environments, he continues, this impaired cognitive function can lead to poor decision-making, memory lapses, and difficulty concentrating. Individuals working long hours without sleep are more likely to make critical errors, which is especially dangerous in professions that demand high levels of focus and precision.

Lesser-known yet serious health risks associated with repeated instances of consistently working for 60 hours in a stretch

Dr Reddy warns of more insidious health risks. He says, “One of the more concerning risks is the development of metabolic disorders. Lack of sleep and constant stress can lead to insulin resistance, which can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes over time. Prolonged periods of overwork have also been linked to weight gain due to disrupted metabolism and poor dietary habits, as individuals may resort to high-calorie, convenience foods to maintain energy levels.”

He also highlights mental health concerns. “Another lesser-known risk is the potential for mental health issues. Chronic sleep deprivation is strongly linked to the development of anxiety and depression. The constant state of stress, combined with physical exhaustion, can lead to burnout, a condition characterised by emotional exhaustion, detachment, and a reduced sense of accomplishment. If left unchecked, burnout can have long-term impacts on an individual’s mental and emotional well-being.”

Strategies professionals can adopt to prevent burnout and health complications when faced with demanding work schedules

Dr Reddy provides several strategies to mitigate health risks during demanding work periods:

Prioritise sleep: Even when facing intense work demands, aim to get short naps or at least power naps. Sleep cycles are typically 90 minutes, so even a nap of that length can help restore cognitive function and alertness.

Hydration and nutrition: Staying hydrated is key to preventing fatigue and headaches. Professionals should also focus on nutrient-dense meals rather than relying on quick snacks or junk food. Foods rich in complex carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats provide long-lasting energy without the sugar crashes that come from processed foods.

Time management and breaks: Using techniques like the Pomodoro method — working in short, focused bursts (usually 25 minutes) followed by a 5-minute break — can prevent mental and physical exhaustion. Regular breaks help the brain refresh and regain focus.

Mindfulness and relaxation: Practicing mindfulness or deep-breathing exercises during breaks can help reduce stress and maintain emotional well-being. This can be as simple as a 5-minute meditation to clear the mind and regain focus.

Set boundaries: If possible, establish boundaries with work to prevent consistently working long hours. Delegation and time management are crucial in ensuring a balanced workload.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.