The Influence of Sleep Disorders on the Progression of Cardiovascular Diseases

Abstract

Sleep disorders, such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and insomnia, have a significant influence on the progression of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). This study aims to review the scientific literature on the impact of these disorders on the cardiovascular system and their relationship with increased cardiovascular risk. OSA, characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, is strongly associated with elevated blood pressure, endothelial dysfunction, and the progression of atherosclerosis, increasing the likelihood of severe cardiac events such as heart attack and stroke. Insomnia, on the other hand, is a sleep disorder that induces chronic activation of the sympathetic nervous system, increases cortisol release, and triggers systemic inflammation, factors that exacerbate hypertension and contribute to the development of cardiac complications. The methodology adopted consisted of an integrative literature review conducted in databases such as PubMed, SciELO, LILACS, and Google Scholar, covering publications from 2010 to 2023, focusing on peer-reviewed articles discussing the association between sleep disorders and cardiovascular risk factors such as hypertension, arrhythmias, and heart failure. The results indicate that early detection and appropriate treatment of these disorders, such as the use of CPAP for OSA and behavioral therapies for insomnia, are essential for the prevention and control of CVD, highlighting the importance of an integrated approach in the management of these patients.