New Study Finds Link Between Insomnia and Stroke Risk
In recent years, numerous studies have highlighted the importance of sleep for both our mental and physical health. Now, a new study published in the journal Neurology has found a potential correlation between chronic sleep loss and strokes.
The study analyzed data from 31,126 individuals over a period of 18 years, focusing on insomnia symptoms and their relation to stroke risk. Researchers discovered that those with insomnia symptoms had a significantly higher risk of suffering from strokes. Furthermore, the study revealed that the more insomnia symptoms someone had, the greater their risk of stroke.
According to Medical News Today, participants self-reported their insomnia symptoms, such as waking up too early, nonrestorative sleep, and difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep. Importantly, none of the participants had a history of stroke at the beginning of the study.
Dr. Hardik Amin, a stroke specialist at Yale Medicine, emphasized the connection between sleep and stroke risk. He explained that both sleep deprivation and insomnia are associated with a higher risk of stroke risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, and obesity. Amin stated, “People who have insomnia will have interrupted circadian rhythms that can lead to higher blood pressure overnight while they sleep. Normally, someone who’s getting normal, healthy sleep, their blood pressure should drop while they sleep.”
One surprising finding of the study was that individuals under 50 with insomnia displayed a higher risk of stroke compared to those over 50. Dr. Martha Robinson, an assistant professor in neurosurgery at Tulane University’s School of Medicine, explained that older individuals are more likely to have other traditional stroke risk factors, making it easier to identify insomnia as a risk factor in younger participants.
However, Amin cautioned against assuming a direct cause-and-effect relationship between insomnia and stroke. He noted that the presence of insomnia in younger patients likely indicates the presence of other underlying health issues, which can increase the risk of stroke.
The study serves as a reminder of the significance of sleep for overall health. Amin stressed the importance of discussing sleep issues with a healthcare provider, as treating sleeping disorders can have a profound impact on a patient’s well-being and future stroke risk.
In addition, it is crucial for individuals to be aware of the symptoms of stroke. Numbness or tingling on one side of the body, weakness on one side, slurred speech, vision problems, balance issues, or facial drooping are all signs that immediate medical attention is needed.
By understanding the link between insomnia and stroke risk, individuals can take steps to prioritize their sleep health and prioritize seeking treatment for any sleep-related concerns.