Tag Archive for: Sleep Apnea

The Role of Quality Sleep in Maintaining Health and Well-being

The Role of Quality Sleep in Maintaining Health and Well-being

In our fast-paced world, where every moment seems to be filled with activity and stimulation, the importance of quality sleep often gets overlooked. At Comprehensive Sleep Care Center, we understand the vital role that sleep plays in maintaining overall health and well-being. In this blog post, we’ll explore why quality restful sleep is essential for a healthy body and mind.

  1. Physical Restoration:

    During sleep, the body undergoes essential processes of repair and restoration. Muscles are repaired, tissues are regenerated, and the immune system is strengthened. Without adequate sleep, these processes are disrupted, leaving the body vulnerable to illness and injury.

  2. Cognitive Function:

    Sleep plays a critical role in cognitive function, including memory consolidation, learning, and problem-solving. When we sleep, the brain processes and stores information gathered throughout the day, allowing us to wake up feeling refreshed and ready to tackle new challenges. Lack of sleep can impair cognitive function, leading to difficulties in concentration, decision-making, and emotional regulation.

  3. Emotional Well-being:

    Quality sleep is closely linked to emotional well-being. During sleep, the brain regulates emotions and processes stressful experiences, helping us maintain a balanced mood and cope with daily stressors. Chronic sleep deprivation can contribute to mood disorders such as anxiety and depression, as well as increased irritability and emotional instability.

  4. Hormonal Balance:

    Sleep plays a crucial role in regulating hormone levels within the body. Hormones involved in appetite regulation, metabolism, stress response, and growth are all influenced by the quality and duration of sleep. Disruption of these hormonal systems due to poor sleep can lead to weight gain, metabolic disorders, and increased risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease.

  5. Overall Health and Longevity:

    Research has consistently shown that inadequate sleep is associated with a wide range of health problems, including cardiovascular disease, hypertension, obesity, and reduced immune function. By prioritizing quality restful sleep, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of developing these chronic health conditions and improve their overall longevity.

How Comprehensive Sleep Care Center Can Help:

At Comprehensive Sleep Care Center, we specialize in diagnosing and treating sleep disorders to help our patients achieve the quality restful sleep they need for optimal health and well-being. Our team of sleep specialists offers personalized treatment plans tailored to address each patient’s unique sleep challenges, whether they are struggling with insomnia, sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, or other sleep disorders.

Through comprehensive evaluations, state-of-the-art sleep studies, and ongoing support, we empower our patients to take control of their sleep health and live their best lives. If you’re experiencing difficulty sleeping or suspect you may have a sleep disorder, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at one of Comprehensive Sleep Care Centers 10 locations, for expert guidance and compassionate care.

Conclusion:

Quality restful sleep is essential for maintaining overall health and well-being. From physical restoration and cognitive function to emotional well-being and hormonal balance, sleep plays a vital role in every aspect of our lives. By prioritizing sleep and seeking help from sleep specialists when needed, individuals can improve their sleep health and enjoy a higher quality of life for years to come. At Comprehensive Sleep Care Center, we’re here to support you on your journey to better sleep and better health and help you Say Hello to Sleep Again…

 

 

The Connection Between Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Weight Gain

Understanding the Connection Between Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Weight Gain

At Comprehensive Sleep Care Center, we understand the intricate relationship between sleep disorders and overall health. One such condition that often goes undiagnosed but can have significant implications on weight management is Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA).

What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

Obstructive Sleep Apnea is a potentially serious sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. This interruption in breathing is typically caused by the relaxation of throat muscles, leading to the obstruction of the airway. OSA not only disrupts sleep patterns but also impacts various aspects of physical and mental well-being.

The Link Between OSA and Weight Gain

Research has shown a bidirectional relationship between Obstructive Sleep Apnea and weight gain. Individuals with excess weight are at a higher risk of developing OSA due to factors such as increased neck circumference and fat deposits around the upper airway. Conversely, OSA can contribute to weight gain or hinder weight loss efforts through several mechanisms:

  1. Metabolic Changes: Sleep deprivation and disrupted sleep patterns associated with OSA can affect hormones involved in appetite regulation, such as leptin and ghrelin. This imbalance may lead to increased cravings for high-calorie foods and impaired metabolism of carbohydrates, contributing to weight gain.
  2. Energy Expenditure: The fragmented sleep characteristic of OSA can result in daytime fatigue and decreased physical activity levels. Reduced energy expenditure coupled with increased calorie intake can create an imbalance that promotes weight gain over time.
  3. Insulin Resistance: OSA has been linked to insulin resistance, a precursor to diabetes and weight gain. Insulin resistance can impair the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels and promote fat storage, further exacerbating weight-related issues.

Treating Sleep Apnea to Aid in Weight Loss

Addressing Obstructive Sleep Apnea is crucial not only for improving sleep quality and overall health but also for supporting weight management goals. At Comprehensive Sleep Care Center, we offer comprehensive diagnostic and treatment options to help individuals effectively manage OSA and its associated complications.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea and weight gain are closely intertwined, with each condition influencing the other in a complex interplay. By recognizing the connection between OSA and weight management, individuals can take proactive steps to address both issues simultaneously. At Comprehensive Sleep Care Center, we are dedicated to helping our patients achieve quality sleep, optimal health, and successful weight management through comprehensive care and support.

If you suspect you may have Obstructive Sleep Apnea we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our experienced team. Together, we can develop a tailored treatment plan to improve your sleep quality, enhance your overall well-being, and support your weight loss journey.

Contact Comprehensive Sleep Care Center today to take the first step towards better sleep and a healthier lifestyle.

 

The Dangers of Untreated Sleep Apnea

Silent Nightmares: The Dangers of Untreated Sleep Apnea

In a world that never sleeps, it’s ironic that many individuals are struggling with a condition that disrupts their peaceful slumber – sleep apnea. This silent and often undiagnosed disorder poses serious risks to both physical and mental health, highlighting the importance of seeking comprehensive care. At the Comprehensive Sleep Care Center, we understand the gravity of untreated sleep apnea and aim to shed light on the potential dangers associated with this condition.

The Silent Intruder:

Sleep apnea is a disorder characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep. These interruptions, called apneas, can last for seconds to minutes and may occur numerous times throughout the night.

According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM), it was estimated that up to 80% of moderate to severe sleep apnea cases remained undiagnosed. This high percentage highlights the under-diagnosis and undertreatment of sleep apnea, which can have serious health consequences such as:

  1. Cardiovascular Complications:

    One of the most alarming dangers of untreated sleep apnea is its impact on cardiovascular health. The repeated interruptions in breathing lead to fluctuations in blood oxygen levels and increased stress on the cardiovascular system. Over time, this can contribute to hypertension, irregular heartbeats, and an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.

  2. Daytime Fatigue and Impaired Cognitive Function:

    The constant disruptions in sleep prevent affected individuals from reaching deep, restorative sleep stages. Consequently, untreated sleep apnea often results in persistent daytime fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and memory problems. This not only affects personal and professional performance but also increases the risk of accidents, both at home and in the workplace.

  3. Metabolic Consequences:

    Untreated sleep apnea has been linked to metabolic disturbances, including insulin resistance and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. The hormonal imbalances triggered by sleep apnea can interfere with the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar, contributing to the development of diabetes over time.

  4. Compromised Mental Health:

    Sleep apnea is not only a physical health concern but also has significant implications for mental well-being. Chronic sleep deprivation and the associated cognitive impairments can contribute to mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. The toll on mental health can create a vicious cycle, as these conditions may further exacerbate sleep disturbances.

  5. Reduced Quality of Life:

    Left untreated, sleep apnea can significantly diminish an individual’s overall quality of life. The persistent exhaustion, cognitive difficulties, and health complications can strain relationships, limit professional success, and undermine one’s ability to enjoy daily activities.

Comprehensive Care at the Sleep Care Center:

At Comprehensive Sleep Care Center, we our team of sleep medicine experts collaborates to provide personalized treatment plans that may include lifestyle modifications, sleep hygiene, positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy, or oral appliance therapy. Regular monitoring and follow-ups are integral to ensure the effectiveness of the chosen treatment and make adjustments as needed.

Conclusion:

Untreated sleep apnea is a silent and insidious threat that can have far-reaching consequences on both physical and mental health. By raising awareness about the dangers associated with sleep apnea, we hope to encourage individuals to seek timely and comprehensive care. At the Comprehensive Sleep Care Center, our commitment is to help you reclaim restful nights and achieve optimal health, ensuring that the dangers of untreated sleep apnea are addressed with expertise and compassion. Remember, a good night’s sleep is not just a luxury – it’s a necessity for a healthier, happier life.

Sleep Divorce: The Importance of Treating Sleep Apnea for a Harmonious Bedroom

Sleep Divorce: The Importance of Treating Sleep Apnea for a Harmonious Bedroom

Sleep is an essential part of our lives, and for many couples, sharing a bed can be a beautiful way to connect and bond. However, what happens when snoring becomes a disruptive force, leading to a phenomenon known as a “sleep divorce”? In this blog, we’ll explore the concept of a sleep divorce, its impact on relationships, and why it’s crucial to get tested and treated for sleep apnea to get back in the bedroom and rekindle the romance.

The Sleep Divorce: An Unwanted Separation

A sleep divorce is not a legal separation but rather a scenario where one partner, often due to snoring, is forced to leave the bedroom and sleep in another room. While it may seem like a harmless solution to get a good night’s sleep, it can have profound effects on the relationship. Sleeping separately can lead to feelings of isolation, disconnection, and even intimacy issues, which, if left unaddressed, can harm the partnership.

The Role of Sleep Apnea

One of the most common reasons for disruptive snoring and the need for a sleep divorce is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. This condition not only affects the quality of sleep but also puts the affected individual at risk for various health issues, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

When one partner has sleep apnea, the other may suffer from sleep deprivation due to the loud snoring and frequent awakenings. This sleep deprivation can lead to frustration and ultimately drive a wedge between partners. However, what many couples don’t realize is that sleep apnea is a treatable condition.

The Importance of Testing and Treatment

If you or your partner is experiencing the symptoms of sleep apnea, such as loud snoring, choking or gasping during sleep, and excessive daytime sleepiness, it’s crucial to seek professional help. A sleep study, conducted either in a sleep clinic or at home, can diagnose sleep apnea and determine its severity.

Once diagnosed, effective treatment options are available, including:

  1. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) Therapy: This involves wearing a mask that delivers a continuous flow of air to keep the airways open during sleep.
  2. Oral Appliance Therapy: Custom-made oral devices can help reposition the jaw and tongue to prevent airway blockage.
  3. Lifestyle Modifications: Weight loss, avoiding alcohol and sedatives, and changing sleep positions can sometimes alleviate mild sleep apnea.
  4. Surgical Interventions: In severe cases, surgery may be recommended to remove excess tissue or correct structural issues causing airway obstruction.

Getting Back in the Bedroom

By seeking treatment for sleep apnea, you can improve not only your health but also your relationship. When snoring and sleep apnea are under control, partners can return to sharing a bed, fostering a more intimate and connected relationship. A restful night’s sleep benefits both individuals, leading to better physical and emotional well-being.

A sleep divorce caused by snoring and untreated sleep apnea can strain even the strongest relationships. It’s essential to recognize the signs of sleep apnea, seek professional help, and commit to treatment. By doing so, you can eliminate the need for a sleep divorce, rekindle the romance in your relationship, and enjoy the benefits of sharing a bed once again. Remember, a good night’s sleep can lead to happier mornings and a healthier, happier partnership.

If you have sleep related issues contact our sleep medicine providers at Comprehensive Sleep Care Center and Say Hello to Sleep Again…

What is a CPAP and why do you need one?

What is a CPAP and why do you need one?

U.S. President Joe Biden has begun using a continuous positive airway pressure machine, or CPAP, to treat his sleep apnea and improve his sleep quality White House officials said on Wednesday.
So, what exactly is a CPAP?

A CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine is a medical device used primarily to treat sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by repeated pauses in breathing or shallow breaths during sleep. These pauses in breathing can disrupt sleep and lead to other health issues.

 

How does a CPAP work?

The CPAP machine works by delivering a constant flow of air pressure to the person’s airways through a mask worn over the nose or both the nose and mouth. The increased air pressure helps to keep the airways open, preventing them from collapsing or becoming blocked during sleep. By maintaining open airways, the CPAP machine ensures a continuous and uninterrupted flow of oxygen, allowing the person to breathe normally while asleep.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Who needs a CPAP?

The primary purpose of CPAP therapy is to alleviate the symptoms of sleep apnea, which include excessive snoring, daytime fatigue, morning headaches, and poor concentration. It can also help reduce the risk of associated health problems such as cardiovascular diseases, high blood pressure, and diabetes. CPAP therapy is usually prescribed after a sleep study or a diagnosis of sleep apnea by a medical professional.

It is important to note that CPAP machines are prescribed and monitored by healthcare professionals. They can provide different settings and pressures tailored to individual needs. Regular usage of the CPAP machine during sleep is essential to get its full benefits and improve overall sleep quality and health.

If you think you might be suffering from sleep apnea, our sleep medicine specialists at Comprehensive Sleep Care Center are here to help. We have ten convenient locations in Alexandria, Arlington, Bethesda, Chantilly, Dumfries, Germantown, Fredericksburg, Lansdowne, Manassas, and Woodbridge. Visit out website or give us a call at 703-729-3420 for more information on sleep apnea and its various treatment options.

Can a Dirty CPAP Make You Sick?

Can a Dirty CPAP Make You Sick?

Why keeping your CPAP clean is important

Do CPAP machines really get dirty? Yes! A dirty CPAP machine can harbor germs and make you sick if they are not cleaned regularly.

Over time, bacteria and oils on a dirty mask may give you a rash or infection on the skin. If the water tank is not cleaned regularly there is the potential for bacteria or mold to grow.

If you are frequently sick or experience any of the following symptoms a dirty CPAP machine could be the problem.

  • Congestion
  • Runny nose
  • Sinus infections
  • Sneezing
  • Sore throat
  • Skin irritation
  • Airway/lung irritation
  • Respiratory infection

Regularly cleaning your CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine is essential for several reasons:

  1. Hygiene: Cleaning your CPAP machine helps maintain good hygiene by removing bacteria, mold, and other potential contaminants. The warm and moist environment inside the CPAP machine provides an ideal breeding ground for these microorganisms, which can lead to respiratory infections and other health issues if inhaled.
  2. Preventing Allergies: Dust, pollen, and other allergens can accumulate in the CPAP machine over time. If not cleaned regularly, these particles can be released into the air you breathe, potentially triggering allergies and exacerbating respiratory conditions such as asthma.
  3. Prolonging Machine Lifespan: Proper maintenance and cleaning can help extend the lifespan of your CPAP machine. Dust and dirt buildup can cause clogs and reduce the effectiveness of the machine. Regular cleaning ensures that the components function optimally and reduces the risk of mechanical failures.
  4. Maintaining Efficacy: A clean CPAP machine delivers the prescribed air pressure effectively. If the mask, tubing, or filters are dirty, the airflow may be obstructed, reducing the therapeutic benefits of CPAP therapy. Cleaning the machine regularly helps maintain consistent and adequate air pressure, ensuring optimal treatment for sleep apnea or other respiratory conditions.

Remember a dirty CPAP can make you sick. So, with regular care, maintenance, and cleaning your CPAP will provide a more pleasant sleep experience and help you breathe easier.

Check out our CPAP Cleaning Instructions Here.

Sleep and Time Change

How to sleep well during time changes

A time change can take a toll on your sleep. Adjusting to changes in your sleep patterns can be hard on your body. You can take steps to avoid disruption to your sleep by learning a few simple strategies.

What are the negative effects of the time change?

The annual change from standard time to daylight saving time is associated with increased risk of heart attacks and stroke. There are increased hospital admissions due to atrial fibrillation. There also is an increase in emergency room visits and missed medical appointments. Traffic accidents increase in the first few days after the change from standard time to daylight saving time. The spring and fall time changes have also been associated with mood disturbances and suicide.

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine supports the elimination of daylight-saving time. A change to permanent standard time is best aligned with human circadian biology and has the potential to produce beneficial effects for public health and safety.

How does daylight saving time change affect your sleep?

We are most vulnerable to sleep deprivation in early March, as they transition from Standard Time to DST. One study found that the average person receives 40 minutes less sleep on the Monday after “Springing Forward” compared to other nights of the year.

During daylight saving time, we tend to go to bed and fall asleep later at night, resulting in sleep loss. The spring and fall time changes can also disrupt our sleep schedule and have a negative effect on the quality of our sleep. The changes to daylight saving time can be especially problematic for any populations that already experiences chronically insufficient sleep or other sleep difficulties. Those at greatest risk include teenagers, who tend to experience chronic sleep restriction during the school week, and night shift workers, who often struggle to sleep well during daytime hours.

Adjusting the time by one hour may not seem like a drastic change, but sleep experts have noted troubling trends that occur during the transition between Standard Time and DST, particularly in March. These issues include  increases in heart problems, mood disorders, and motor vehicle collisions. Some people also experience insomnia symptoms due to springtime changes.

During time change, you can take steps to help avoid disruption to your sleep. Getting the recommended seven to eight hours of sleep a night provides tremendous health benefits and helps you perform at your best.

Daylight Saving Time Sleep Tips

  • Practice Good Sleep Hygiene: Sleep hygiene refers to practices that can influence sleep for better or worse. In order to ease the transition of the time change, you should refrain from consuming alcohol before bed. While drinking can cause you to feel sleepy initially, alcohol also causes sleep disruptions and leads to poor sleep quality. Heavy meals before bedtime can also negatively affect how well you sleep that night.
  • Establish a Consistent Sleep Routine: Going to bed and waking up at the same time each day – including the weekends – is a healthy sleep hygiene practice that can also prepare you for time changes.
  • Gradually Alter Your Bedtime: Two to three days before the time change we recommend waking up 15-20 minutes earlier than usual. Then, on the Saturday before the time change, set your alarm clock back by an additional 15-20 minutes. Adjusting your wake-up time can help the body make a smoother transition when the time change occurs.
  • Spend Time Outdoors: Since natural light is a driving force behind our circadian rhythms, exposure to sunlight can alleviate feelings of tiredness during the day that often accompany time changes.
  • Nap in Moderation: People who experience sleep debt as a result of DST may find some relief by taking short naps during the day. These naps should never exceed 20 minutes in length; otherwise, you may wake up feeling groggy.
  • Don’t Consume Caffeine Too Close to Bedtime: Studies have found caffeine consumed within six hours of bedtime can disrupt your sleep cycle.

If you are experiencing sleep problems visit one of our sleep medicine providers at Comprehensive Sleep Care Center. Our doctors treat over 80 types of sleep disorders such as Sleep Apnea, Insomnia, and Narcolepsy. Give us a call and Say Hello to Sleep Again…

Sleep Problems and Female Infertility

Can Sleep Apnea Cause Female Infertility?

Sleep and infertility -Have you ever thought about how they relate to one another?

Sleep plays a vital role in all our lives, affecting our quality of life, health, and yes even fertility. Getting a good night’s sleep helps refresh and restore your brain and body and regulate important hormones. Including the fertility-related hormones. Women with sleep disorders may be more than three times as likely to experience infertility as their counterparts who don’t have trouble sleeping.

A recent study showed that Obstructive Sleep Apnea is more commonly seen in infertile women and increases the odds that a woman will be infertile.

Lack of Sleep Can Affect Fertility-Related Hormones

There’s a long list of “lifestyle” factors that we know can affect the fertility of both women and men. From weight issues, smoking, and stress, but you can add poor quality sleep to that list.

According to the Centers for Disease and Control (CDC), lack of sleep, (6 or less hours a night)- which more than one third of Americans experience, can affect the hormones related to fertility. The part of the brain that regulates “sleep-wake hormones” in both men and women is also responsible for triggering the daily release of hormones that affect ovulation in women and sperm maturation in men.

According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine’s study, women with low quality sleep had lower rates of fertility than those getting adequate rest.

The importance of sleep is not only tied to the number of hours, but also to the quality of sleep: waking up frequently during the night disrupts the normal sleep cycle, which includes a deep sleep stage during which the body restores itself. Consistent poor-quality sleep can contribute to:

  • High blood pressure
  • Weight gain
  • Hormone imbalance

all of which can lead to fertility problems.

What Else Connects Sleep and Fertility?

Long-term lack of sleep can disrupt more than your hormonal balance. It can affect your fertility in indirect was too.

  • Mood changes. Over time, this could disrupt your relationship with your spouse or sexual partner.
  • Increasing your health conditions that can affect your fertility. These include diabetes, cardiovascular (heart and blood vessels) disease and obesity.

Studies show that Obstructive Sleep Apnea is more commonly seen in infertile women and increases the odds that a woman will be infertile. More studies need to be done and we still have a lot to learn about how exactly sleep disorders may affect infertility. Even so, the results suggest that women can add infertility to the long list of health reasons to get help when they can’t fall or stay asleep.

If you’d like to have your sleep patterns assessed by a professional, or if you want to learn more about getting adequate sleep, please contact Comprehensive Sleep Care Center.

Sleep Apnea and High Blood Pressure- A Dangerous Pair

Sleep Apnea and High Blood Pressure a Dangerous Pair

Many people think sleep apnea is as simple as loud snoring, but it’s much more than that. Sleep apnea affects many systems in the body and is associated with several serious conditions like high blood pressure.

High blood pressure puts a daily strain on the cardiovascular system which may lead to stroke, heart disease, and other serious conditions. Fortunately, managing high blood pressure with medication and lifestyle changes can reduce your risk for harmful health effects.

It’s important to understand the relationship between sleep apnea and high blood pressure because these two conditions affect one another, and treatment for sleep apnea can lower blood pressure in people who have both.

Sleep Apnea, like high blood pressure, isn’t normally something people usually detect on their own. If you have sleep apnea, you likely don’t know about it unless you’re keeping your bed partner up at night by snoring or that you are gasping in your sleep.

Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the muscles that support the soft tissues in your throat, such as your tongue and soft palate, temporarily relax. When these muscles relax, your airway is narrowed or closed, and breathing is momentarily cut off. Individuals with sleep apnea stop breathing for short periods of time when sleeping. Pauses in breathing can last just a few seconds to a few minutes and occur as little as 5 to as many as 30 times per hour.

Every time your oxygen level drops, this raises your blood pressure and causes an adrenaline surge. This puts increased stress on your heart because it must work harder to normalize your blood pressure.

 What Is the Relationship Between Sleep Apnea and High Blood Pressure?

 In healthy individuals, blood pressure naturally lowers by between 10 and 20%  at night, a phenomenon that is sometimes referred to as “blood pressure dipping“. People with severe OSA experience blood pressure dips less than 10%, which indicates a “non-dipping” blood pressure pattern.

People who have non-dipping blood pressure at night face an increased risk for cardiovascular issues. Additionally, many patients with OSA experience a sudden and pronounced elevation of their blood pressure when they wake up in the morning. This “morning surge” is another factor that may increase risk for cardiovascular disease.  OSA doesn’t only affect blood pressure at night. Studies show that daytime blood pressure levels also increase with sleep apnea severity.

Sleep apnea is one of the most common sleep disorders in the United States. Of people diagnosed with OSA, it is estimated that around half also have high blood pressure. The good news is that treatment for sleep apnea may aid in lowering blood pressure levels.

If you are suffering from high blood pressure it may benefit you to get checked for sleep apnea. Call one of our sleep medicine professionals today and get on the road to a healthier and happier you!

How Does Lack of Sleep Affect Your Heart Health?

How Does Lack of Sleep Affect Your Heart Health?

February is American Heart Month, so here at Comprehensive Sleep Care Center it is time to focus on your cardiovascular health.

Unfortunately, heart problems are a leading cause of illness and death in the United States. While factors like poor diet, limited exercise, and smoking can harm the heart, there is growing recognition of the dangers of lack of sleep or poor sleep on your heart health.

Getting enough quality sleep is necessary for our physical and mental wellbeing. Sleeping just 60 to 90 minutes more per night can make you a happier and healthier person. It is estimated that over 35% of adults don’t get enough sleep (7 hours per day) according to the CDC.

What health conditions are linked to a lack of sleep?

  • High blood pressure. During normal sleep, your blood pressure goes down. Having sleep issues means your blood pressure stays higher for a longer period of time. High blood pressure is one of the leading risks for heart disease and stroke. About 75 million Americans—1 in 3 adults—have high blood pressure.
  • Type 2 diabetes. Diabetes is a disease that causes sugar to build up in your blood, a condition that can damage your blood vessels. Some studies show that getting enough good sleep may help people improve blood sugar control.
  • Obesity. Lack of sleep can lead to unhealthy weight gain. This is especially true for children and adolescents, who need more sleep than adults. Not getting enough sleep may affect a part of the brain that controls hunger.

What sleep conditions can hurt my heart health?

Sleep ApneaSleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that occurs when a person’s breathing is interrupted during sleep. People with untreated sleep apnea stop breathing repeatedly during their sleep, sometimes hundreds of times. This increases the risk for many health problems, including high blood pressure, heart attack, and stroke. Untreated Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) can also lead to a host of other problems like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), diabetes, depression, hypertension, and obesity.

  • 25 million S. adults suffer from obstructive sleep apnea.
  • The National Commission on Sleep Disorders Research estimated that sleep apnea is probably responsible for 38,000 cardiovascular deaths
  • Obstructive sleep apnea increases the risk of heart failure by 140%, the risk of stroke by 60%, and the risk of coronary heart disease by 30%.

 Insomnia – Insomnia refers to difficulty falling sleep, staying asleep, or both. As many as 1 in 2 adults experience short-term insomnia, and 1 in 10 may have long-lasting or chronic insomnia. Insomnia is linked to high blood pressure and heart disease. Over time, poor sleep can also lead to unhealthy habits that can hurt your heart, including higher stress levels, less motivation to be physically active, and unhealthy food choices.

What is the best heart healthy sleep advice?

  • Avoid caffeine near bedtime
  • Engage in physical exercise, preferably earlier in the day if possible
  • Turn off the computer, phone, and TV at least 30-60 minutes before going to sleep. Blue light from these devices makes it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep.
  • Lastly when it comes to your sleep, make sure you do not have a sleep disorder. Follow up with your physician or our sleep medicine professionals.

If you are experiencing sleeping issues you should speak to your doctor or call Comprehensive Sleep Care Center at 703-729-3420 to see one of our sleep medicine specialists. We have 9 locations in Alexandria, Arlington, Chantilly, Dumfries, Lansdown and Woodbridge Virginia and Bethesda and Germantown Maryland. We are now offering TeleMedicine visits to new and returning patients. Comprehensive Sleep Care Center offers expert diagnosis, treatment, and care for sleep disorders with the goal of providing a better night’s sleep and a better day ahead.