01/09/10

Insomnia linked with high blood pressure, says new research

People who suffer from insomnia are at increased risk of developing high blood pressure, according to new American research.

Our senior cardiac nurse, Judy O’Sullivan, said: “This study suggests that insomnia and short sleep duration increase the risk of developing high blood pressure.

“Lack of sleep is often associated with mental ill health, which has already been linked with disease of the heart and circulation, such as high blood pressure.

“Studies like this highlight the need for an holistic approach to health promotion and managing sickness rather than treating issues in isolation.”

The research was carried out by Penn State College and the findings are published in the September issue of the journal SLEEP.