For many people recovering from an aortic dissection, follow-up care focuses on scans, blood pressure, medication and physical activity. These are all essential parts of long-term management. However, an important aspect of recovery is often overlooked. Sleep.
New international research from the Amsterdam University Medical Center and Yale School of Medicine involving patients from the UK and the Netherlands highlights a clear concern. Poor sleep is common and often unrecognised in routine care. In this study, around 65% of survivors reported poor sleep quality. This is much higher than what is seen in the general population. In the UK group, the figure was even higher at over 80%. These findings suggest that sleep disturbance is a core part of the recovery experience.
Sleep plays a vital role in physical and psychological recovery. It supports immune function, memory and emotional stability. Poor sleep can reduce energy levels and affect concentration. It can also make it harder to take part in rehabilitation or return to normal daily activities. Despite this, sleep is rarely assessed in a structured way during follow-up. Many patients are only asked about sleep issues if they raise concerns themselves. This creates a gap in care and can make patients feel that sleep problems are not important or not related to their recovery.
The research also shows that sleep disturbance is rarely caused by one single issue. Instead, it is often the result of several overlapping factors, including frequent waking during the night, needing to use the toilet, pain and difficulty falling back asleep. Many patients also report daytime fatigue, which affects overall quality of life.
Understanding the causes of poor sleep after aortic dissection
There are several possible explanations. Medication, particularly for blood pressure, may contribute to night-time waking. Pain after surgery can disrupt sleep. Psychological factors also play a role. Some patients experience ongoing anxiety or heightened awareness of their body, making it difficult to relax at night.
Taken together, these findings raise an important question. Should sleep be routinely assessed as part of aortic dissection follow-up?
Questionnaires such as the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index can help identify patients who are struggling. More importantly, recognising the problem opens the door to support. This may include reviewing medication, managing pain or addressing anxiety.
Improving sleep may not only improve comfort. It may also support wider recovery. Better sleep can lead to better energy levels, improved mood and greater ability to engage in daily life and overall recovery.
Why can’t I sleep after aortic dissection?”
Many patients tell us the same thing. They wake several times a night, lie awake for long periods and feel exhausted during the day. Some worry that something is wrong. Others feel they are the only one experiencing this.
This research shows that these experiences are very common.
Waking during the night is one of the most frequent problems. Many patients report waking at least once a week, often much more. Difficulty falling back asleep is also common. Some people describe their mind as being unable to switch off. Thoughts about their health can become more noticeable at night while quiet surroundings can make physical sensations feel stronger.
Pain is another important factor, with even low levels of ongoing discomfort interrupting sleep. Poor sleep can then make pain feel worse, creating a cycle that is difficult to break.
Daytime effects are also significant. Many patients report fatigue, reduced concentration and low energy. These symptoms can affect work, relationships and confidence in daily activities. It is important to say that these experiences are not unusual.
Understanding the cause of sleep problems is the first step. In some cases, a review of medication may help. In others, managing pain more effectively can improve sleep. Psychological support can also be valuable, particularly if anxiety or intrusive thoughts are present. There are also simple strategies that may support better sleep. Keeping a regular sleep routine can help. Reducing screen use before bed may make it easier to fall asleep. Creating a calm and comfortable sleep environment is important.
If sleep problems persist, it is vital to seek help. Your GP or consultant can explore possible causes and offer support. Sleep should be treated as an important part of recovery, not an afterthought. For many survivors, recovery is about regaining quality of life. Sleep is a key part of that process.
Looking for support with your recovery?
We offer a range of trusted resources to support people living with aortic dissection. These practical guides have been developed by patients and medical experts, providing clear and reliable advice on recovery, physical activity, rehabilitation and managing ongoing symptoms.
