Via Christi sleep specialist urges quality sleep for good heart health

Getting enough sleep is very important for keeping your heart healthy. When you sleep, your bodies have a chance to repair and recharge, just like your phones do when they’re plugged in. 

Hugh Wong, MD, a sleep specialist at Ascension Medical Group Via Christi Sleep Clinic on Carriage Parkway in Wichita, Kansas says quality sleep is essential for maintaining heart health. “Our bodies need that downtime to recover and function properly. If you're experiencing sleep issues, or a loved one tells you about concerns, consulting with a specialist can help identify underlying problems and guide you towards better sleep habits," he said. 

Dr. Wong shares more on why sleep matters for your heart:

Why sleep matters

When you don’t get enough sleep, it can cause problems for your heart. Lack of sleep can lead to:

• High blood pressure: Your body needs sleep to regulate blood pressure. If you’re not sleeping enough, your blood pressure might stay higher for longer periods.
• Heart disease: Not getting enough sleep can increase the risk of heart disease. This includes problems like heart attacks and strokes.
• Stress: Sleep helps to reduce stress. If you’re not getting enough sleep, you might feel more stressed, which can hurt your heart.

Sleep apnea and snoring

Sleep apnea is a serious condition where your breathing stops and starts while you sleep. This can lead to:

• Interrupted sleep: Sleep apnea causes frequent wake-ups during the night, which means you’re not getting the deep, restful sleep your body needs.
• Increased blood pressure: The constant interruptions in breathing can cause spikes in blood pressure, putting extra strain on your heart.
• Higher risk of heart problems: People with sleep apnea have a higher risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other heart-related issues.

Snoring is also a common sign of sleep apnea. If you or someone you know snores loudly and regularly, it might be worth getting checked out by a sleep specialist.

How much sleep do you need?

Most adults need seven to nine hours of sleep each night. Kids and teenagers need even more. Making sure you get enough sleep can help keep your heart healthy.

Tips for better sleep

Here are some tips to help you get a good night's sleep:

• Avoid caffeine and heavy meals before bed: These can keep you awake when you should be sleeping.
• Create a sleep-friendly environment: Keep your bedroom dark, quiet, and cool.
• Limit screens before bed: Try not to use phones, tablets, or computers at least an hour before bed.
• Stick to a schedule: Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day.

 Talk to a sleep specialist

If you’re having trouble sleeping, it might be a good idea to talk to a sleep specialist. They can help you figure out what’s causing your sleep problems and how to fix them. Ascension Medical Group Via Christi in Wichita, Kansas, has specialists who can provide expert advice and care for sleep issues. For more information, visit our website or schedule an appointment today at (316) 651-2250.