Sleep and Stroke Risk
Sleep disorders may increase the risk of stroke, new study finds.
Video Transcript:
Insomnia, sleep apnea and restless leg syndrome may increase the risk of stroke, according to a new study.
Researchers reviewed dozens of previous studies on the subject. They point to evidence that links sleep-breathing problems like sleep apnea to increased stroke risk. Sleep-disordered breathing also appears to affect both short- and long-term stroke recovery and outcomes. Sleep-wake disorders like insomnia and restless leg syndrome are also associated with increased risk but the evidence was not as robust.
The authors recommend that people who’ve had a stroke or mini-stroke be screened for sleep disorders… and that men and women diagnosed with sleep apnea be treated with a CPAP machine.
I’m Dr. Cindy Haines of HealthDay TV… with the latest breakthroughs from the world of medicine.
