Insomnia Linked to 26% Higher Stroke Risk
A large research review also tied insomnia to more hospital stays from any cause.
People with insomnia had a 26% greater stroke risk in a review covering 1.3 million participants. Their likelihood of hospitalization for any reason was also 28% higher. The researchers combined findings from six earlier studies examining stroke risks, workplace injuries and hospital admissions.
Doctors say disrupted sleep may affect inflammation, clot formation and cortisol levels. Those effects can influence blood pressure, heart rate and artery health. Insomnia may also disrupt metabolism and contribute to conditions associated with stroke, including diabetes, high cholesterol and weight gain. The relationship is not necessarily one-directional: health problems that increase stroke vulnerability may also disturb sleep.
The review did not determine whether insomnia treatment prevents strokes. Treatment depends on the source of the sleep problem. Clinicians may check for contributors such as sleep apnea, anxiety, medication effects or restless legs. When insomnia itself is the primary diagnosis, cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia can address habits and thoughts that keep poor sleep going. Sleep-hygiene changes and certain medicines are other treatment options.
- Six previous studies supplied the review’s data.
- A 2023 analysis followed 31,126 adults for nine years.
- The earlier association was especially pronounced among adults younger than 50.
- CBT-I is widely regarded as a leading insomnia treatment.
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