Sleep deprivation

6 lesser-known causes of high blood pressure

Could you be at risk for high blood pressure — and not even know it?

By Lisa Bendall

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3. Sleep deprivation

It hasn’t been proven conclusively, but studies suggest that sleeping less than six hours at night might cause high blood pressure, or make an existing hypertensive condition worse. Researchers believe that adequate sleep is important for regulating stress hormones and keeping your nervous system in good health – both factors in maintaining healthy blood pressure. The recommendation? Aim for seven to eight hours of sleep per night.