Just a few things I know for sure.
Sleep Deprivation is cumulative and is extremely abusive on your body whether you feel it or not, beyond just being tired. A few nights with too little sleep adds up.
It can seriously reduce your cognitive ability, balance, coordination, increase stress, affect your heart and even cause someone to lose weight.
There have been lots of studies on it
Regular light exercise, Good diet (more proteins less fats), staying well hydrated (water), staying well rested prior or Short naps (10-30 min nap can keep you alert for 3-4 or more hours) during long periods without sleep, stretch move around, take deep breaths and staying cool will all help.