Sleep disturbances and stroke link

August 23, 2016   |   Evidence in Integrative Healthcare

Sleep apnea and/or poor sleep habits may increase stroke risk according to a recent large literature reviews. Meta-analysis of 29 studies and 2,343 patients with an ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke or transient ischemic attack showed that more than 72% had sleep disordered breathing (SBD). Insomnia, hypersomnia, and restless leg were also cited as increasing stroke risk. Poor sleep may relate to more than slow healing. Asking patients about sleep patterns should be included in basic intake forms.