Sleep Apnea To Nocturnal Arrhythmias: How Sleep Patterns Affect Heart Health?

There are a number of less common signs and symptoms that may point to a cardiac issue other than the well-known symptoms of shortness of breath and chest pain.

Representational image. Sleep is a dynamic process during which numerous biological functions continue and vital organs re-energise and repair ( Image Source :Getty )

(Written by Dr Praveen P Sadarmin, Consultant - Cardiology - Adult, Narayana Health City Bangalore)

The human body never ceases to astound us with its complex means of expressing its distress. Frequently, symptoms of underlying health problems appear when we're least expecting and one of them can be as simple as sleeping. Other than the well-known symptoms of shortness of breath and chest pain, there are a number of less common signs and symptoms that may point to a cardiac issue.

The Link: 

How Sleep Patterns Affect Heart Health? Sleep is a dynamic process during which numerous biological functions continue and vital organs re-energise and repair happens at the molecular level. The very basic function of life that is breathing and heart beating continue unabated and without stopping or resting. Recognizing possible problems requires an understanding of the relationship between sleep habits and cardiovascular health.

Conditions: 

Sleep Apnea: A Breathing Alarm

Sleep apnea, a condition where breathing temporarily stops during sleep, can be associated with heart problems. Patients with sleep apnea often experience loud snoring, frequent awakenings, and daytime sleeping and fatigue. The repeated oxygen deprivation can strain the overall system, leading to cardiac issues.

Nocturnal Arrhythmias: Unruly Heartbeats at Night

Heart arrhythmias or irregular heartbeats, often become more pronounced during sleep. Patients may notice palpitations, skipped beats, or fluttering sensations in the chest. These nocturnal arrhythmias can hint at underlying heart conditions like atrial fibrillation.

Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) and Cardiovascular Concerns

Restless Leg Syndrome, characterized by uncomfortable sensations in the legs, can disrupt sleep. In the recent years, a connection between RLS and cardiovascular risk factors has also been revealed. Individuals with RLS are at a higher risk of cardiovascular issues such as high blood pressure, making it important to monitor and manage RLS symptoms as a potential marker of heart health.

Sudden Awakenings and Night Sweats

Frequent awakenings during the night, accompanied by excessive sweating, can be indicative of heart problems. These night sweats often result from the body's response to increased heart rate and blood pressure during sleep.

Sleep Deprivation and Heart Health

Chronic sleep deprivation can wreak havoc on overall health, including heart health. Poor sleep patterns can contribute to obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes – all risk factors for heart disease.

Way Forward: 

Our bodies are incredible in the way they communicate distress, and sleep patterns are a valuable source of information when it comes to heart health. Beyond the more well-known symptoms, recognizing signs like sleep apnea, nocturnal arrhythmias, restless leg syndrome, sudden awakenings, and night sweats play a crucial role in early detection and intervention. Prioritizing healthy sleep habits and seeking medical attention for unusual sleep patterns not only improve sleep quality but also save lives by uncovering hidden heart problems.

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