Lack of Sleep Heath Issue: Lifestyle Desk. Nowadays, due to late night calls, work pressure, studies and changing daily routine, many people are unable to get enough sleep. Many people consider it normal even after sleeping 5-6 hours every day. But sleep is not just the body’s way of relaxing. While sleeping, the body performs many important functions and the heart also gets rest. Prolonged lack of or poor quality sleep can affect many areas of health. According to the American Heart Association, the duration, regularity and quality of sleep have been found to be to heart disease, stroke, blood pressure and metabolic problems.

How many hours of sleep is necessary every day

Most people need at least 7 hours of sleep every night. Sometimes it is a different thing to sleep less for a day or two, but continuously less sleep should not become a habit. Research has linked sleeping less than 7 hours to many health problems.

Every person’s sleep needs may be slightly different. Therefore, instead of just counting the hours, it is important to pay attention to the quality of sleep and how the body feels throughout the day.

Effect of less sleep on blood pressure

Blood pressure normally goes down when we sleep. This provides relief to the body and heart. If sleep is not proper or interrupted frequently, this process can be affected. Long-term poor sleep has been linked to risks like high blood pressure.

High blood pressure can further increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. If you are having poor sleep for several days, then do not ignore it as mere fatigue.

Quality of sleep is also important

Staying in bed for 7-8 hours does not always mean good sleep. If you wake up repeatedly at night, take time to fall asleep or feel tired even after waking up in the morning, then the quality of sleep cannot be considered good. The American Heart Association has also linked things like sleep duration, its regularity, sleeping at the right time and daytime sleepiness to heart and metabolic health.

Snoring and respiratory arrest can be signs

Loud snoring, problems like stopping breathing at night or waking up frequently can be a sign of sleep apnea. In this, the windpipe may get closed again and again while sleeping. According to the CDC, sleep apnea has been linked to an increased risk of high blood pressure, heart attack and stroke. If such symptoms persist, consult a doctor.

Easy ways to improve sleep

Keep the time of sleeping and waking up approximately fixed. Get some physical activity during the day and spend time in natural light. Reduce the use of mobile phones and bright screens before sleeping at night. Keep the room quiet, dark and comfortable. If the problem persists for a long time, consult a doctor instead of treating it yourself.