Researchers have determined that there is a direct link between inadequate sleep and an increased risk of high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. Studies have shown that individuals who sleep less than 7 hours a night are at a higher risk of developing hypertension over time. The risk is even greater for those who get less than five hours of sleep per night. These findings were presented at the American College of Cardiology’s Annual Scientific Session by Dr. Kaveh Hosseini, the study’s principal investigator. The researchers looked at data from 16 studies involving over a million participants in six countries and found that shorter sleep durations were associated with a significantly higher risk of developing hypertension, even after adjusting for other risk factors.
Although the association between sleep patterns and high blood pressure is not a new discovery, previous evidence has been inconsistent. The study found that sleeping fewer than 7 hours per night was associated with a 7% increased risk of developing high blood pressure, which increased to 11% for those sleeping fewer than 5 hours per night. The researchers compared this risk to the effects of diabetes and smoking, which are known to increase the risk of hypertension by at least 20%. The study participants were between 35 and 61 years old, and more than half were female. Females who reported sleeping fewer than 7 hours had a 7% greater risk of developing high blood pressure.
The study also revealed that the risk of developing high blood pressure due to inadequate sleep is higher in women. This could be attributed to hormonal factors, such as fluctuations in estrogen levels, which may influence sleep patterns and cardiovascular health differently in women. Women are also more likely to experience sleep disturbances related to hormonal changes during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause, as well as social and environmental factors that affect their sleep quality and quantity. The importance of sleep for overall health is becoming increasingly clear as more research is conducted on the effects of low-quality sleep.
To improve sleep quality and reduce the risk of developing hypertension, experts recommend maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, and optimizing the sleep environment. Avoiding stimulating activities before bedtime, keeping the bedroom cool, dark, and quiet, and seeking help from a healthcare professional if sleep difficulties persist are all strategies that can help individuals get better quality sleep and improve their overall health. Adequate sleep is crucial for allowing the body to rest and repair itself, as well as regulating hormones that influence blood pressure, inflammation, and blood sugar levels. By following healthy sleep habits and seeking professional help when needed, individuals can improve their sleep quality and reduce their risk of developing hypertension and other health issues.
