A good night’s sleep certainly helps you feel more energized and focused during the day. But did you know that getting enough rest is also an important part of cardiac care? This guide will outline what patients should know about sleep and healthy hearts. 

How Can Sleep Affect Your Cardiac Care?

Multiple studies have linked a lack of sleep to increased risk of heart disease and stroke. Getting less than six hours of sleep per night increases your risk factors for these diseases. According to the CDC, the following are just some of these risk factors and conditions:

• Obesity: A lack of sleep may impact the part of the brain that manages hunger and appetite control. When you are fatigued from a lack of sleep, you’re more likely to reach for sugary snacks to keep your energy levels up. This impulse can lead to weight gain over time, which is linked to conditions like heart disease. 

• High Blood Pressure: Your blood pressure goes down during sleep, so a lack of sleep keeps your blood pressure higher for longer. High blood pressure can harden your arteries, which interferes with the proper flow of blood to your heart. 

• Type 2 Diabetes: Getting enough sleep can help with blood sugar control. However, if your body can’t regulate your blood sugar, you could develop type 2 diabetes. Getting seven to nine hours of sleep per night can help with blood sugar regulation, both at night and during the day.

How Can You Get Better Sleep?

Your heart doctor can give you specific tips for improving your sleep and boosting heart health. However, there are some tips that apply to everyone. Keeping a consistent sleep schedule, reducing the use of electronics near bedtime, practicing stress management, avoiding caffeine later in the day, and controlling alcohol consumption all may be helpful. Sleeping in a cool and dark environment can help your body rest as well. Your doctor may also recommend taking supplements like melatonin to help you fall asleep. Keep in mind that they may refer you to a sleep doctor if you are showing symptoms of a disorder like insomnia. 

If you want to learn more about sleep and heart health, make an appointment at DiVagno Interventional Cardiology, MD, PA. Located in Rochelle Park, NJ, Dr. Leonard DiVagno has over 20 years of experience. He and his cardiac care team specialize in cardiovascular diseases and interventional cardiology. They address issues like inflammatory heart disease, peripheral artery disease, and heart palpitations. Learn more about their practice by visiting them online, or call (201) 845-3535 to make an appointment today.