Is Your Insomnia Putting Your Heart at Risk? May 15, 2025 If you’ve ever spent a night tossing and turning, you’re not alone. Insomnia is one of the most common sleep disorders, and it affects millions of Australians. Whether it’s difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up feeling unrefreshed, insomnia can take a toll—not just on your energy and mood, but also on your heart. New research shows that nearly 60% of Australian adults regularly experience at least one symptom of poor sleep, such as trouble falling or staying asleep.1 About 15% of people show signs of clinical insomnia, which is defined as experiencing sleep difficulties at least three nights a week for three months or more.1,2 While we often focus on the mental health effects of insomnia—like low energy, poor concentration, and increased risk of anxiety—its impact on physical health can be just as serious.2 One of the most concerning findings in recent years is the strong link between insomnia and heart disease. People with insomnia have been shown to have a 45% higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease.2 That includes an increased risk of heart-related issues such as heart attacks and strokes. Why is insomnia so hard on the heart? Scientists believe poor sleep disrupts the body’s stress response. Insomnia has been linked to increased levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, which can damage blood vessels over time and lead to high blood pressure.2,3 Sleep deprivation also promotes inflammation in the body and may speed up calcium buildup in the arteries—a key contributor to heart disease.2 The numbers are sobering. Studies show that people with insomnia have a 48% higher risk of heart attacks, a 54% higher risk of stroke, and are 53% more likely to die from heart disease compared to those who sleep well.2,4 Overall, insomnia raises the risk of developing any form of cardiovascular disease by 31%.4 Even the risk of death from any cause is 14% higher among people with insomnia compared to healthy people.4 So, while it might be tempting to brush off a few sleepless nights, chronic insomnia is more than just an inconvenience—it could be a serious warning sign from your body. If you're struggling with sleep and experiencing symptoms of insomnia, speak to your doctor. Good sleep isn't just about feeling rested—it's about protecting your heart and your long-term health. How Sove CPAP Clinic Can Help Founded in 2008, Sove CPAP Clinic has grown to become a leading provider of respiratory and sleep services and products in Australia, with over 60 clinics nationwide. Our comprehensive clinical team includes Respiratory & Sleep Specialists, Sleep Technologists, and CPAP Consultants, ensuring that you receive comprehensive and personalised care. All medical procedures, including sleep studies and lung function testing, are bulk billed to all Australians, with minimal wait time. If you would like to speak to a Respiratory & Sleep Physician, book a bulk-billed sleep study, or seek advice for your sleep apnea, you can reach us at 1300 76 29 39 or info@thecpapclinic.com.au. ALWAYS FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. CPAP is used for Obstructive Sleep Apnea treatment. When considering whether a sleep study or CPAP is right for you, speak to your doctor. Medicare criteria and T&C’s apply. Citations 1. “Chronic Insomnia Disorder in Australia | Special Sleep Reports.” Www.sleephealthfoundation.org.au, www.sleephealthfoundation.org.au. 2. “Insomnia and Heart Health.” Www.heart.org, www.heart.org. 3. Ling, Adrian. “The Impact of Stress on Vascular Health | Vein Artery Specialist.” Vein Artery, 21 Nov. 2023, www.veinarteryspecialist.com.au. Accessed 15 May 2025. 4. “Insomnia Linked to Higher Risk of Cardiovascular Events.” Www.medicalnewstoday.com, 29 Sept. 2023, www.medicalnewstoday.com.
