Extended Sleep and Sleep Difficulties Linked to Cognitive Issues Post-Mild Stroke

Research published in Neurology reveals that individuals who experience a mild stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA), commonly known as a mini-stroke, and spend increased time in bed either sleeping or trying to sleep may face greater risks of cognitive decline and brain changes associated with dementia or subsequent strokes. The study emphasizes that not just sleep duration but also the duration spent attempting to sleep is correlated with negative brain alterations.

Participants who reported longer periods in bed—whether due to actual sleep or difficulty falling asleep, fragmented sleep, or poor sleep quality—showed more indicators of small vessel disease in the brain. These indicators include a higher volume of white matter hyperintensities, which are regions of damage within the white matter, and a greater prevalence of microhemorrhages or microbleeds.

It's important to note that the study does not establish causation but highlights a significant association between sleep patterns and brain health in stroke survivors. The findings suggest that disturbed sleep behaviors could serve as markers of underlying adverse brain changes even in those with mild strokes or TIAs.

Dr. Joanna M. Wardlaw from the University of Edinburgh explains that these sleep patterns might reflect broader issues with brain health. She underscores that while many recognize the health risks of sleep deprivation, less is understood about the impacts of extended sleep or prolonged attempts to sleep—whether intentional or not.

The study involved 422 participants from Edinburgh and Hong Kong, averaging 66 years old, all of whom had experienced a mild stroke or TIA. Within three months of their event, they underwent brain scans, completed sleep questionnaires, and took cognitive assessments. Results indicated that those with longer bed times were more likely to demonstrate signs of white matter damage and slight declines in thinking and memory skills. Participants with longer sleep durations also showed signs of microbleeds in the brain.

While these findings are preliminary, they highlight the need for further research to explore whether improving sleep habits could potentially mitigate some of these brain changes and cognitive issues. The study serves as a reminder that quality sleep and healthy sleep behaviors are integral to brain health, especially in individuals recovering from mild strokes or TIAs.

source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-05-mild-spent-problems.html