Not getting enough sleep? You might be at risk of heart attack

Sleep deprivation has become a common problem several people face on a daily basis. But, it may put you at risk of heart attack?Read on to understand how.

Insomnia, a condition often brushed off as a minor inconvenience, has far-reaching implications beyond sleepless nights. Emerging research highlights a surprising connection between insomnia and heightened risks of cardiovascular issues, specifically heart attacks and strokes. Understanding these risks is crucial, not just for individuals but also for the healthcare and pharmaceutical industries striving to address public health. Mental health issues, including anxiety and depression, often go hand-in-hand with insomnia.

How Lack of Sleep Affects Heart?

The link between insomnia and cardiovascular disease is largely rooted in how chronic sleep deprivation affects bodily functions. When the body doesn’t get sufficient rest, stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline remain elevated. These hormones, critical in the body’s ‘fight or flight’ response, also lead to sustained increases in blood pressure and heart rate. India.com got in touch with By Dr. Aravind Badiger Technical Director BDR Pharmaceuticals to understand the connection and how to manage it. According to Dr. Badiger, over time, this prolonged state of physiological stress can damage the cardiovascular system, narrowing blood vessels, hardening arterial walls, and increasing clotting tendencies-all of which heighten the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

Additionally, poor sleep impacts metabolic functions. Insomnia can lead to insulin resistance, weight gain, and inflammatory responses that contribute to cardiovascular strain. Research suggests that adults with persistent insomnia face up to a 45% higher risk of heart attack and stroke compared to those with regular sleep patterns, with the risk climbing among middle-aged and older individuals.

Another concerning impact of insomnia on cardiovascular health is its potential to trigger irregular heart rhythms, or arrhythmias. Insomniacs are at greater risk of developing atrial fibrillation, a condition that causes the heart to beat irregularly. Atrial fibrillation can lead to blood clots, which increase the risk of stroke and can put additional strain on the heart.

5 Ways to Manage Sleep and Heart Health

1. Sleep Routine: Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This helps regulate the body’s internal clock.
2. Limit Stimulants: Avoid caffeine and nicotine close to bedtime, as they can increase alertness and disrupt sleep quality.
3. Optimise the Sleep Environment: Make sure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and at a comfortable temperature to encourage better sleep.
4. Practice Relaxation Techniques: Techniques like meditation, deep breathing exercises, or progressive muscle relaxation can help reduce stress and improve sleep quality.
5. Seek Professional Help if Needed: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) has been shown to be an effective treatment for chronic insomnia. Consulting a healthcare professional can also help identify any underlying health issues contributing to sleep difficulties.

The hidden link between insomnia and heart disease is an urgent reminder that sleep health cannot be overlooked. As more evidence emerges, it’s clear that insomnia is not just a benign issue but a risk factor for severe health conditions like heart attacks and strokes. The pharmaceutical industry is in a prime position to innovate and create treatments that address insomnia and its cardiovascular implications together. With greater awareness, advancements in combination therapies, and a proactive approach to preventive care, we can make strides in reducing insomnia’s impact on cardiovascular health—ensuring that better sleep leads to a healthier heart.