In this fast-paced modern world that we live in, everyone is sacrificing sleep to survive the daily hustle. However, sleep is an essential part of a fit body and a healthy heart.
In an interaction with OnlyMyHealth, Dr. Abhishek SIngh, consultant- Cardiology, Manipal Hospital, Ghaziabad, why prioritising sleep is non-negotiable for a happy and healthy heart
1.Cortisol Crisis
“When you function on fewer hours of sleep, your body goes into a state of stress alert and starts producing cortisol. This stress hormone then creates severe imbalances, which further create problems for your arteries. This further leads to heart attacks and strokes,” said Dr Singh.
Also read: Why Are Women More Likely To Die From A Heart Attack Than Men
2.Inflammation
Prolonged sleep deprivation in hindsight damages your heart health more than anything. Lack of sleep leads to the release of inflammatory markers that start plaguing your arteries and increase your chances of heart disease.
3.Your internal clock is not synced
“The circadian rhythm, which is an internal clock in your body, controls essential processes, including blood pressure and heart rate. This balance is upset by chronic sleep deprivation, which increases cardiovascular system stress and causes irregular heart rhythms,” said Dr Singh, adding, palpitations, elevated blood pressure, and, in extreme situations, cardiac failure are possible symptoms of this.
4.Sleep Apnoea
“Sleep apnea, or pause-and-restart breath during sleep, is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. It deprives your body of oxygen, causing high blood pressure, inflammation, and an abnormal heartbeat. Having severe snoring or being overly tired during the day necessitates getting a sleep apnea test,” said Dr Singh, adding, medical intervention through CPAP support and pharyngoplasty may also be needed in cases of sleep apnoea.
5.Insomnia
There’s a connection between heart attack risk and insomnia. Individuals who slept for five hours or less were most at risk of having a heart attack. The risk of a heart attack was doubled in those who suffered from lack of sleep.
How Much Sleep Does Your Heart Ask For?
Dr Singh advises to get 7-9 hours of quality sleep every day. Have a regular sleep schedule, make your bedtime relaxing, and ensure that you will have a sleep-inducing room with a cool, dark, and quiet bedroom. Further, do not use screens, consume caffeinated beverages, or take alcoholic drinks before going to bed.
Also read:Silent Threat: Recognising Mini Heart Attacks and Safeguard Your Health
Wash your feet before going to bed and use the bed for the sole purpose of sleeping; avoid activities such as eating, working, or lying down on the bed.
Talk to your physician if lack of sleep persists, as there might be health concerns associated with it. However, always keep in mind that sleep is not a luxury but an investment in your heart health. By ensuring that sleep becomes an indispensable aspect of your daily life, you improve the quality of life in your heart. Therefore, go to bed early with the lights off and take care of your heart health.
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