Rewritten Title: Medical Expert Highlights Sleep as a Critical Pillar of Public Health and Disease Prevention
In an in-depth discussion on preventative healthcare, Dr. Mahnaz Amini, a sleep specialist and faculty member at Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, has underscored the pivotal role of quality sleep in combating chronic diseases and maintaining overall public health.
The Non-Negotiable Pillar of Health
Dr. Amini established sleep as a biological necessity, equating its importance to eating and breathing. She explained that disruptions in sleep can have immediate and severe consequences for the body’s regulatory systems. “Sleep disturbance or deprivation can disrupt blood sugar regulation and increase the risk of developing diabetes in otherwise healthy individuals,” Dr. Amini stated.
The Vicious Cycle of Sleep and Diabetes
The specialist detailed a two-way relationship between sleep and diabetes. For diabetic patients, especially those with poor blood sugar control, symptoms like frequent urination at night, restless legs, and nightmares can severely degrade sleep quality, which in turn worsens the management of the disease. Furthermore, Dr. Amini identified both sleeping less than seven hours or more than nine hours as significant risk factors for the onset of diabetes. She specifically pointed to snoring and sleep apnea as common disorders that, by reducing blood oxygen levels, can destabilize blood sugar balance over the long term.
The Complex Interplay with Blood Pressure
The analysis also covered the intricate link between sleep and hypertension. Dr. Amini noted that individuals with high blood pressure must be aware of the potential side effects of their medication. “The consumption of certain blood pressure drugs, particularly late at night, can cause insomnia and nightmares,” she said. Additionally, diuretic medications, often prescribed for hypertension, can lead to frequent nighttime awakenings, further disrupting sleep patterns.
A Key to Treatment-Resistant Hypertension
Dr. Amini highlighted a critical connection between treatment-resistant high blood pressure and sleep disorders, especially Obstructive Sleep Apnea. “In many cases of treatment-resistant hypertension, sleep disorders are the underlying cause. This is why patients with uncontrolled high blood pressure are strongly advised to seek evaluation from a sleep specialist,” she emphasized.
Prescriptions for Better Sleep
Concluding her remarks, Dr. Amini provided actionable advice for improving sleep hygiene. Her recommendations included reducing caffeine intake, maintaining a consistent sleep-wake schedule, avoiding excessive use of digital devices before bed, and ensuring a comfortable room temperature. By adhering to these principles, she affirmed that individuals can significantly enhance their quality of life and effectively manage chronic health conditions, positioning proper sleep as a cornerstone of a robust and healthy society.