Insomnia Linked to Increased Stroke and Alzheimer's Risk, Study Finds
New research suggests that difficulty falling asleep may elevate the likelihood of stroke by over 25% and contribute to a higher risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.
Experiencing persistent difficulties falling asleep may significantly increase the risk of stroke and Alzheimer's disease, according to a recent study.
Insomnia, a prevalent sleep disorder characterized by trouble falling asleep or achieving restorative sleep, can have substantial effects on mood, memory, and concentration. While up to a third of adults in the UK are believed to experience disrupted sleep, a smaller proportion receive a formal diagnosis.
Italian researchers analyzed health data from over 1.3 million participants from two major medical research databases. Their findings, published in the journal Sleep Medicine Reviews, indicate that individuals with insomnia face a 26% increased risk of stroke. The study also linked the disorder to a 28% higher likelihood of hospitalization for any reason.
Dr. Luca Vignatelli, a neurologist at the Institute of Neurological Sciences of Bologna and a co-author of the study, stated that insomnia warrants attention as a warning sign for brain and mental health status. "These findings show that someone with insomnia has an increased risk for dementia or stroke," he said, adding that insomnia should be recognized and addressed as part of a broader health approach.
While the study did not pinpoint a specific cause for these links, previous research has connected chronic sleep deprivation to high blood pressure, a major risk factor for stroke. Insufficient sleep, generally considered less than seven to nine hours per night, can also lead to elevated levels of C-reactive protein, a marker of inflammation that can strain the heart.
The review, funded by the European Academy of Neurology, also found a connection between insomnia and dementia, including Alzheimer's disease. However, the researchers emphasized that their findings do not establish a causal relationship but rather highlight an association between insomnia and these conditions.
Professor Stefan Seidel suggested that sleep should be a component of brain health discussions at all ages. "We need to raise awareness of insomnia and its treatment and make sure sleep is included in health promotion programmes in our communities, schools and workplaces," he remarked.
Established research indicates that obtaining six to eight hours of sleep per night can reduce the risk of several health issues, including high blood pressure, dementia, and stroke. During deep sleep, the brain performs essential waste clearance functions. Scientists theorize that chronic poor sleep may impede this process, potentially contributing to cognitive decline over time.
For individuals struggling with insomnia, improvements can often be made through better sleep hygiene practices, such as maintaining a dark and quiet sleep environment, engaging in regular exercise, and avoiding screens before bed. Additionally, sleep aids, cognitive behavioral therapy, and sleeping pills are available options for treatment.