Does Excessive Sleep Increase Cardiovascular Risks and Heart Rate?

Palpitations and prolonged sleep?

Hello, Director.
Is it true that sleeping 10-12 hours a day can increase cardiovascular risk and mortality, as stated online? Also, is my resting heart rate of 87-98 bpm and a heart rate of 100-110 bpm during light activity possibly due to excessive sleep? Could frequent premature ventricular contractions also be a result of sleeping too much? What are the potential dangers of having a consistently elevated heart rate? Thank you, Director, and I apologize for the questions.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/05/06

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello, the internet says to just take a look and live comfortably.
Don't keep looking for things to scare yourself.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2023/05/06

More Info

Excessive sleep, defined as consistently sleeping more than 9-10 hours a night, has been associated with various health risks, including cardiovascular issues and increased mortality rates. While the relationship between sleep duration and health outcomes is complex, research suggests that both insufficient sleep and excessive sleep can lead to negative health consequences.

Studies have shown that individuals who sleep more than 10 hours per night may have a higher risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. This association could be due to several factors. For instance, excessive sleep may be a marker of underlying health issues, such as obesity, depression, or chronic illness, which themselves are risk factors for cardiovascular problems. Additionally, prolonged sleep can lead to a sedentary lifestyle, which is another risk factor for heart disease.

Regarding your specific question about heart rate, a resting heart rate of 87-98 beats per minute (bpm) is considered elevated for most adults, where a normal resting heart rate typically ranges from 60 to 100 bpm. Factors such as stress, anxiety, physical fitness, and sleep quality can influence heart rate. If you find that your heart rate is consistently high during rest or light activity, it may be worth exploring potential underlying causes, including sleep patterns, lifestyle factors, or even anxiety.

As for premature ventricular contractions (PVCs), these are extra heartbeats originating in the ventricles and can occur in healthy individuals without any underlying heart disease. While excessive sleep is not a direct cause of PVCs, it is essential to consider that changes in sleep patterns, stress levels, and overall health can influence heart rhythm. If you are experiencing frequent PVCs or other irregular heartbeats, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

In terms of the dangers of having a consistently elevated heart rate, it can lead to increased strain on the heart over time. A persistently high heart rate can be associated with an increased risk of developing heart disease, heart failure, and other cardiovascular complications. It is crucial to monitor your heart rate and discuss any concerns with a healthcare provider, especially if you notice significant changes or experience symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness.

In summary, while excessive sleep can be linked to cardiovascular risks, it is essential to consider the broader context of your health, lifestyle, and any underlying conditions. If you are concerned about your sleep patterns, heart rate, or overall cardiovascular health, I recommend seeking a thorough evaluation from a healthcare professional who can provide personalized advice and potential interventions. Maintaining a balanced lifestyle, including regular physical activity, a healthy diet, and adequate sleep, is vital for overall heart health.

Similar Q&A

Palpitations and Arrhythmias: Understanding Your Heart Health Risks

Hello Doctor, recently I have experienced episodes during sleep where my heart beats strongly and accelerates (about twice a month). I underwent a 24-hour Holter monitor test, which only detected two instances of arrhythmia (however, the strong acceleration did not occur on that ...

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology
Hello, anxiety can cause your heart to beat strongly and accelerate, which is known as palpitations. It's not a disease. A 24-hour Holter monitor showed no issues, so there's no need to worry about sudden cardiac death. Everything is fine. Changhua Hospital cares about ...

Is Irregular Heartbeat Linked to Sleep Apnea? Understanding Your Symptoms

Hello, I sometimes experience a heart rate of around 100 beats per minute while lying down at night, and during the day, when sitting at the computer, my heart rate ranges from 100 to 120 (as measured by a fingertip pulse oximeter). I have tried diaphragmatic breathing, and I do ...

Dr. Wu Xueming reply Cardiology
The size of the respiratory tract can indeed cause these symptoms. It is advisable to visit a hospital that offers autonomic nervous system evaluations and consult with a neurologist for further discussion and examination.

Understanding Nighttime Heart Palpitations and Insomnia: Causes and Solutions

Hello Doctor, recently there have been some changes at home that have caused me significant stress. I would like to ask about a situation where I feel my heart racing during sleep, similar to a vibration, which often wakes me up and makes it hard to fall back asleep. This usually...

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology
Hello, if you are experiencing significant stress and autonomic nervous system dysregulation, it is advisable to monitor the situation. You may also consider using some medications to help adjust the condition, which should not pose any issues. Changhua Hospital cares about your ...

Understanding Sleep Heart Rate Spikes in Kidney and Heart Disease Patients

Hello Doctor, I am a dialysis patient and also have ischemic heart disease. Last year, I was examined for the degree of coronary artery blockage, which showed 40% in one artery and 50% in another. I also have sleep apnea due to mild arrhythmia. Over the past few months, I have be...

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology
Hello, the imaging results are not conclusive. Last year, there was a 40% blockage in one artery and a 50% blockage in another, which should be manageable. Sleep apnea could potentially cause autonomic instability during sleep, leading to a heart rate exceeding 100, even reaching...