Do you sleep for less than 6 hours? You are inviting hypertension, arrhythmias

People who consistently sleep less than six hours per night are at a higher risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. (Image: Canva)

In our busy, modern lives, sleep often takes a backseat to work, social commitments, and entertainment. Many people consistently get less than six hours of sleep each night, not realising the serious health consequences that come with it. While lack of sleep may seem harmless in the short term, it can have long-lasting effects on your cardiovascular system. Sleep plays a vital role in maintaining heart health, and deprivation can lead to several heart-related conditions.

How sleep affects your heart

During sleep, the body goes through important restorative processes that help maintain cardiovascular health. The heart rate slows down, blood pressure drops and the body enters a state of recovery. However, when you don’t get enough sleep, these processes are disrupted. This places extra strain on the heart, which can lead to a higher risk of heart disease, hypertension, and irregular heart rhythms. Dr Vinayak Agrawal, Senior Director and Head of Non-Invasive Cardiology at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram, emphasises how crucial adequate sleep is for a healthy heart.

Increased risk of hypertension

One of the most significant effects of sleep deprivation is an increased risk of high blood pressure or hypertension. Sleep helps regulate stress hormones and maintain a healthy nervous system. When you’re deprived of sleep, your body stays in a heightened state of alertness, which can elevate blood pressure. Chronic hypertension is a well-established risk factor for heart disease and can lead to severe complications, such as heart attacks, strokes, and heart failure.

Also see: Prevent heart diseases with these simple everyday habits, from daily exercises to healthy diet

Elevated risk of cardiovascular disease

Numerous studies have shown that people who consistently sleep less than six hours per night are at a higher risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. This includes coronary artery disease, where plaque builds up in the arteries and restricts blood flow to the heart. Sleep deprivation also promotes inflammation, which can damage blood vessels and contribute to the formation of clots. These clots can increase the risk of a heart attack. Over time, inadequate sleep can cause lasting damage to the cardiovascular system.

Impact on heart rhythms

Sleep deprivation can also trigger irregular heart rhythms, known as arrhythmias. Atrial fibrillation, a common type of arrhythmia, is more likely in individuals who don’t get enough sleep. This condition can cause blood clots and may even lead to strokes. Even short-term sleep deprivation can cause irregular heartbeats in people who are already prone to heart conditions, further increasing their risk of complications.

Prioritising sleep for heart health

To protect your heart, it’s essential to prioritise sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep each night. Creating a regular sleep schedule, reducing screen time before bed, and cultivating a calm, restful environment can help improve sleep quality. Additionally, managing stress, limiting caffeine intake, and avoiding heavy meals before bedtime can all support better sleep and, in turn, heart health.