Insomnia Symptoms reported by participants included difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, and waking up early. By comparing participants with and without symptoms of a sleep disorder, the researchers found a measure of risk. Paralysis The number of symptoms increased as the number increased.
People with one to four insomnia symptoms were found to be 16 percent more likely to have a stroke than those with no symptoms, while those experiencing five to eight symptoms were 51 percent more likely to have a stroke. The link was strongest for participants under the age of 50.
The findings do not prove that sleep deprivation causes stroke, but rather, as the researchers wrote, the study “identifies sleep deprivation symptoms as a risk factor for stroke,” meaning they increase the likelihood of stroke “and suggests increased awareness and management of sleep deprivation. Symptoms may help prevent stroke.”
Health professionals consider insomnia to be a common sleep disorder; It is said to affect one-third of adults worldwide – Women more often than men, and more older than younger. Common causes include stress at work or at home, stress, money problems, inactivity, and use of substances such as caffeine, tobacco, and alcohol. Treatment for insomnia Addressing these causes usually starts with lifestyle changes and sometimes involves therapy or medication.
This article is part of The Post’s “Big Number” series, which takes a brief look at the statistical side of health problems. Additional information and related research are available through hyperlinks.