Know How Insomnia Is Connected To The Health Of Your Heart

Substantial evidence demonstrates that insomnia- an issue with initiating and maintaining sleep, or experiencing sleep of poor quality, negatively impacts the health of your heart. According to researchers, insomnia is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke. The fact that 30 percent of the US population exhibit some signs of insomnia is quite unfortunate. Also, 44 percent of individuals who have issues related to their ticker report frequent insomnia, making it a very common heart failure (HF) symptom.

Sleep is indispensable for the body to recuperate. A good night’s sleep of high-quality for at least 7-9 hours sets the tone for the rest of the day. Any type of sleep disorder, such as insomnia, can take its toll on your cardiovascular health. According to a new study, individuals with a family history of insomnia are at a higher risk of coronary artery disease, heart failure, and stroke.

Insomnia symptoms to watch out for:

1.      Fatigue

2.      Unable to concentrate

3.      Daytime sleepiness

4.      Reduced initiative

5.      Low mood

6.      Poor performance

7.      Irritability

All these signs can interfere with your daytime functioning.

Connection between insomnia and heart health:

Insomnia puts individuals with high blood pressure, obesity and type 2 diabetes at a greater risk of heart disease- all of which are considered precursors to heart failure (HF).

If you are finding it difficult to fall asleep, difficult staying asleep all through the night, or wake up in absolutely early morning hours, or all of them, you might be suffering from insomnia, which can take its toll on your physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

The fact that coronary heart disease (CHD) is the leading cause of death in the United States is not hidden from anyone. Atherosclerosis- hardening or narrowing of arteries due to plaque accumulation in the coronary arteries- is the main cause. According to research, sleep deprivation contributes hugely to atherosclerosis. The formation of plaque occurs as a result of inflammation, which involves white blood cells that are produced by the immune system, to accumulate in the arteries. When sleep quality is compromised, it sets off chronic inflammation, which leads to plaque formation and hardening of the arteries.

The impact of sleep deprivation on coronary heart disease can also be attributed to effects of sleep on blood pressure. High blood pressure puts strain on the arteries, making them less effective at pumping blood to the heart, consequently leading to heart disease.

Some ways to receive quality sleep:

Besides consulting with your doctor, the following tips can help you sleep better:

1.      Detach from all gadgets at least 2-3 hours before you head to bed

2.      Create and stick to a sleep routine of waking up and going to sleep at the same time every day

3.      Avoid taking naps during the day

4.      Steer clear of caffeine after noon

5.      Avoid heavy meals and alcohol within 2-3 hours of bed time

6.      Exercise during the day rather than before hitting the bed

7.      Create a soothing atmosphere in your room (quiet, dark, and a comfortable temperature) - an atmosphere that is calming and relaxing- to promote sleep

Undergo CPR training at the AHA certified CPR Memphis in Tennessee to efficiently deal with any untoward cardiac emergency, such as a sudden cardiac arrest or heart attack. These are life-threatening emergencies that require immediate action and your knowledge in the lifesaving CPR procedure can come to the victim’s rescue. To register for a class, contact CPR Memphis at 901-438-4200.