The Hidden Stroke Risk in Your Sleep
Every night, you settle into bed, likely without a second thought about how your body is positioned. But studies show that certain sleeping postures can affect blood circulation and strain your cardiovascular system. Poor blood flow to the brain, even for a few hours, can increase stroke risk over time. For seniors, this is especially critical, as age already heightens vulnerability. The American Heart Association notes that strokes affect over 795,000 people annually in the U.S., many preventable with lifestyle tweaks. Could your sleeping habits be one of those tweaks? Let’s explore what’s at stake.
The problem often lies in positions that restrict blood flow or strain the neck. Sleeping in a way that compresses arteries or disrupts breathing can subtly stress your body overnight. Over months or years, this adds up. But which position is the culprit, and why does it matter so much? The answer might surprise you.
Why Your Sleeping Position Matters
Picture Jane, a 62-year-old retiree, waking up groggy with a stiff neck after sleeping on her stomach all night. She didn’t know this habit could affect her stroke risk. Research from the Journal of Neurology suggests that stomach sleeping—prone position—may reduce blood flow to the brain by twisting the neck unnaturally. This restricts carotid arteries, critical for delivering oxygen-rich blood. For seniors like Jane, this can elevate stroke risk, especially if paired with conditions like high blood pressure. But there’s good news: small adjustments helped Jane feel sharper and safer. Want to know what she changed?
