Let’s face it. Most of us don’t get enough sleep. With busy schedules, holiday commitments, business travel, and family demands, catching some zzz’s often becomes less of a priority. Thus, losing some shut-eye and feeling fatigued during the day seem a natural consequence of modern life. Not to worry… or should we?
A recent study found that those with pre-existing high blood pressure may face an increased risk of heart disease and stroke as a result of inadequate sleep. Published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, the study took place in Japan where more than 1,200 adults with hypertension were followed over a four-year period. Those who slept less than 7.5 hours each night were 68% more likely to suffer a heart attack or stroke or die of cardiac arrest.
To make matters worse, the risk of cardiovascular complications rose fourfold for people with shortened sleep periods who didn’t experience a drop in overnight blood pressure. Researchers theorize that a lack of sleep leads to persistent, increased nervous system stimulation throughout the day, which may consequently stress the cardiovascular system.
And previous studies have also linked a loss of sleep and a host of maladies, including increased risks of breast cancer and hypertension in women, type 2 diabetes, and obesity.
So, no matter how busy you are, make sleep a priority on your to-do list… your health depends on it. See all House Calls by Dr. Geehr.