New Delhi: Insomnia, characterized by difficulty falling or staying asleep, affects millions worldwide and is increasingly linked to cardiovascular health risks, particularly heart attacks and strokes. Chronic insomnia elevates stress hormone levels, like cortisol, leading to high blood pressure and heart rate, which over time contributes to atherosclerosis—a key risk factor for heart attacks and strokes. Additionally, insomnia disrupts metabolic processes, raising the likelihood of obesity and diabetes, both of which further heighten cardiovascular risks.

How does insomnia affect the  heart, brain?

In an interaction with News9Live, Dr. Aravind Badiger Technical Director of BDR Pharmaceuticals. explained how insomnia affects mental health and over time raises the risk of heart attack and stroke.

The mental health effects of insomnia, such as anxiety and depression, also contribute to poor heart health. Individuals with insomnia may adopt unhealthy habits like poor diet and alcohol consumption, which worsen heart conditions. Moreover, this relationship is bidirectional—those with heart conditions often experience sleep disturbances, creating a cycle that exacerbates both issues.

Studies confirm the connection between insomnia and cardiovascular events. For instance, research published in Sleep revealed that chronic insomnia increases the risk of heart disease by 45%, as well as the likelihood of stroke. These findings highlight the importance of addressing sleep disorders as a public health priority.

Effective treatments, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I), help patients develop healthier sleep patterns, reducing the risk of heart- complications. Additionally, newer medications that target specific brain receptors provide short-term insomnia relief without the side effects of traditional sedatives.

Indian pharmaceutical companies are playing a key role in developing accessible treatments for both insomnia and cardiovascular disease. By raising awareness and promoting early diagnosis, the pharma industry helps mitigate these health risks. In India, where both conditions are on the rise, a combination of pharmaceutical treatments and lifestyle changes is essential for reducing heart attack and stroke risks associated with insomnia.