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I have recently been diagnosed with high blood pressure. Can a lack of sleep be a contributing factor?
October 24, 2009
Sleep deprivation and poor stress management may be contributing to your high blood pressure. Each person has a certain amount of sleep that they require to feel rested and refreshed. Some people require as little as four to five hours of sleep a night whereas others need eight or nine hours of sleep to feel totally recharged. When your body does not get enough rest, you may have trouble coping with stress.
Stress can affect your body, thoughts or feelings, and behavior. Each person reacts differently to stress. You may not be coping well if you are experiencing some of the following symptoms:
- headache
- high blood pressure
- chest pains
- heart palpitations
- upset stomach
- outbursts of anger
- depression
- irritability
- anxiety
- worrying
- lack of focus
- overeating or under eating
- relationship conflicts
High blood pressure is often referred to as “the silent killer” because people are often unaware they have it until they start having health issues. Your blood pressure increases when you are under a great deal of stress and can contribute to heart disease. The heart is forced to work harder when your blood pressure is elevated. Your heart can become enlarged and the muscle can become weak due to the extra work required to pump blood to the rest of your body.
Look after your health by leading a healthy lifestyle and establishing healthy habits. Healthy habits that can decrease your blood pressure and help you cope with some of the stress in your life may include:
- relaxation or meditation techniques
- maintaining a healthy weight
- limiting your salt intake
- getting adequate rest
- taking time to relax
- exercising regularly
- limiting amount the alcohol you drink
- not smoking
- taking medications as prescribed
Consult your healthcare provider for your yearly physical examination, have your blood pressure checked regularly and express any health concerns you may have.
For more information about high blood pressure or stress management, or for available programs and services, contact Health Link Alberta where nurses are available 24-7 to provide health advice and information. Call 1-866-408-LINK (5465) or780-408-LINK (Edmonton area) or 403-943-LINK (Calgary area).
