The Role of Sleep in Cardiovascular Disease

Curr Atheroscler Rep. 2024 Jul;26(7):249-262. doi: 10.1007/s11883-024-01207-5. Epub 2024 May 25.

Abstract

Purpose of review: Sleep is an important component of cardiovascular (CV) health. This review summarizes the complex relationship between sleep and CV disease (CVD). Additionally, we describe the data supporting the treatment of sleep disturbances in preventing and treating CVD.

Recent findings: Recent guidelines recommend screening for obstructive sleep apnea in patients with atrial fibrillation. New data continues to demonstrate the importance of sleep quality and duration for CV health. There is a complex bidirectional relationship between sleep health and CVD. Sleep disturbances have systemic effects that contribute to the development of CVD, including hypertension, coronary artery disease, heart failure, and arrhythmias. Additionally, CVD contributes to the development of sleep disturbances. However, more data are needed to support the role of screening for and treatment of sleep disorders for the prevention of CVD.

Keywords: Cardiovascular disease; Obstructive sleep apnea; Prevention; Sleep.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cardiovascular Diseases* / physiopathology
  • Cardiovascular Diseases* / prevention & control
  • Humans
  • Risk Factors
  • Sleep Apnea, Obstructive / complications
  • Sleep Apnea, Obstructive / physiopathology
  • Sleep Apnea, Obstructive / therapy
  • Sleep Quality
  • Sleep Wake Disorders* / complications
  • Sleep Wake Disorders* / physiopathology
  • Sleep* / physiology