Eight strategies for promoting restful slumber in individuals with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Sleep plays a crucial role in maintaining heart health, and this is especially true for individuals with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). The American Heart Association recommends adults sleep for 7-9 hours per 24 hours [1].
Good sleep quality is vital for heart health [2]. However, sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) can pose a risk, as they are often associated with HCM. Light therapy and cognitive behavioural therapy may be used to treat sleep disorders [19]. Oral devices and continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices are also options for treating sleep apnea [18].
Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule is essential for better sleep health [7]. Good sleep hygiene includes avoiding caffeine in the afternoon and evening [11], eating dinner several hours before bedtime [13], and creating a quiet, cool, dark, and comfortable sleep environment [9]. Alcohol before bedtime is not recommended due to its effects on sleep and potential worsening of HCM symptoms [12].
Avoiding large meals close to bedtime can help prevent postprandial hypotension and worsening HCM symptoms [14]. Lying down soon after eating may lead to heartburn or symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease [15].
Sleep aids may be necessary for those with sleep disorders such as insomnia, sleep apnea, or restless leg syndrome [16]. Medications like nonbenzodiazepine receptor agonists, orexin receptor antagonists, and melatonin receptor agonists are used to treat sleep disorders [17].
Beyond these lifestyle measures, individuals with HCM can benefit from specific additional measures. Screening and treatment of sleep-disordered breathing like OSA can improve cardiovascular outcomes [6]. Family screening and early accurate diagnosis of HCM are vital for timely management [2][4]. Close coordination with cardiologists and sleep specialists can help tailor treatments to address both cardiac and sleep health issues [2][4].
A healthy sleep schedule may help improve heart health and reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications from HCM [20]. In addition, good sleep hygiene can support restorative sleep [5]. Enhancing sleep hygiene through practical habits such as washing pillow covers weekly to reduce allergens, avoiding caffeine after the afternoon, minimizing screen exposure at least one hour before sleep, and integrating calming bedtime rituals can all contribute to better sleep [5].
Collectively, these approaches complement lifestyle measures by addressing underlying sleep disorders, optimizing sleep environment, and ensuring comprehensive cardiac care tailored to HCM patients’ needs. Lack of quality sleep can lead to inflammation, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease [3]. Insufficient sleep may also contribute to mental health conditions, such as depression, which can affect heart health [5]. Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule and improving sleep quality can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and its associated risk factors, such as hypertension, diabetes, and obesity [4]. Exercise is important for heart health and can help improve sleep quality. Low-intensity exercise may be suitable for people with HCM [10].
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