Docs of 2020- Latest Research Encompassing Physiology’s Updates

Short-term sleep deprivation affects heart function

A study done on the cardiac effects of short-term sleep deprivation, specifically in the context of 24-hour shifts, has found that sleep deprivation can lead to a significant increase in cardiac contractility, blood pressure, and heart rate.

The study looked at 20 healthy radiologists with a mean age of 31.6 years and had each one undergo cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging with strain analysis before and after their 24 hours shifts. Thet also had their blood pressure read and had both urine and blood samples drawn before and after. 

"Following short-term sleep deprivation, the participants showed significant increases in mean peak systolic strain (pre = -21.9; post = -23.4), systolic (112.8; 118.5) and diastolic (62.9; 69.2) blood pressure and heart rate (63.0; 68.9). In addition, the participants had significant increases in levels of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), thyroid hormones FT3 and FT4, and cortisol, a hormone released by the body in response to stress."

Radiological Society of North America. "Short-term sleep deprivation affects heart function." ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 2 December 2016. <www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/12/161202100943.htm>.

  • Parker Will
  • Parker Will