People suffering from frequent nightmares can have up to three times higher risk of premature death. This is claimed by scientists from Imperial College London. According to their research, in which more than 183,000 adults and 2400 children analyzed data, nightmares are a stronger risk factor such as smoking, obesity, poor diet or lack of exercise.
“Our sleeping brains do not distinguish between dream and reality. That is why nightmares often wake us sweaty, with a breath and pounding heart, because the reaction is triggered or escaping, ” Explained by Dr. Abidemi Otoika, the chief author of the study.
Research shows that even a single month of night survival can accelerate biological aging and increase mortality. Approximately forty percent of the increased risk of premature death was related to accelerated cell aging.
“Nightmares lead to a long -term increase in the level of stress hormone cortisol. It is closely associated with faster cell aging. At the same time, they disrupt the quality and length of sleep, which limits the body’s ability to recover during the night, “he said.
It also offers prevention opportunities in its research. According to Dr. Otaiku may help Avoiding horror films, good sleep hygiene, stress management and treatment of anxiety or depression.
