Insomnia Makes Heart Work Harder

Insomnia is annoying, but is it really bad for you? Perhaps so.

If you’re unable to sleep, your heart may not be getting the rest it needs. A new study found that people with insomnia have a heightened nighttime blood pressure. The blood pressure increase may lead to cardiac problems.

“Over many years, chronic insomnia can have negative effects on the hearts of otherwise healthy individuals,” says lead author Paola A. Lanfranchi of the Université de Montréal.

Lanfranchi notes that a decrease in blood pressure at night gives the hearts of sleepers time to rest. However, insomniacs don’t get that benefit. Their higher blood pressure during the night can cause long-term cardiovascular risks and possibly a damaged heart. Researchers note that people with overt cardiac disease are especially at risk for progression of their diseases due to insomnia.

The study, published in the journal SLEEP, focused on the 24-hour blood pressure of 13 insomniacs versus 13 sound sleepers. The study participants spent 40 hours in a sleep lab, including an adaptation period of two nights before monitoring began.

To avoid insomnia, most experts recommend using the bedroom for sleeping and sex only. No TV or working in bed. Also, it’s wise to avoid naps and late afternoon caffeine.

(Image via flickr/curt)