Can insomnia result in diabetes or hypertension?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am really worried about my husband's health. Recently, he has been having trouble sleeping, and I heard that lack of sleep might be linked to diabetes and hypertension. He is diabetic but under control and takes his medicines on time. Could you please explain how these things are connected? What impact does poor sleep have on diabetes and hypertension? Also, are there any specific things he should do or avoid in terms of sleep and lifestyle to help manage these health concerns? Kindly suggest.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

There is no such connection with diabetes, but yes, sleep disturbances or stress can lead to hypertension. If your sleep is disturbed for a long time of period, like for years, and you have certain kinds of stress, then you are more prone to develop hypertension but not diabetes. A healthy person should sleep at least six to eight hours daily in a pattern of sleep that is continuous. If you are working on alternative shifts, then you should make a schedule accordingly and get at least six hours of sleep out of 24 hours of the day. That will be enough to keep you healthy, and you will not have any risk of developing hypertension. Along with it, I would suggest you do regular exercises to manage diabetes. I hope this information will help you.

Thank you.