What Sleep Disorders Affect Cardiovascular Health?
Several sleep disorders are linked to cardiovascular issues:
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): This is the most studied sleep disorder in connection with cardiovascular health. OSA is characterized by repeated episodes of partial or complete obstruction of the upper airway during sleep, leading to intermittent hypoxia and fragmented sleep. - Insomnia: Chronic insomnia can lead to increased stress and elevated sympathetic nervous system activity, contributing to hypertension and other cardiovascular problems. - Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) and Periodic Limb Movement Disorder (PLMD): These conditions can lead to frequent arousals and poor sleep quality, which may impact heart health. - Short Sleep Duration: Consistently getting less than the recommended 7-9 hours of sleep per night has been associated with increased risks of hypertension, obesity, and diabetes, all of which are risk factors for CVD.
