Keywords
Sleep Disorders
Cardiovascular Risk
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Abstract
Objective: To analyze the relationship between sleep disorders and cardiovascular risk, with emphasis on the pathophysiological implications of acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Methods: This is an integrative literature review based on articles published in the last ten years in the PubMed, SciELO, and BVS databases, using controlled descriptors from the Health Sciences Descriptors (DeCS). Results: The main mechanisms by which sleep alterations, such as obstructive sleep apnea and insomnia, influence atherosclerotic, inflammatory, and autonomic processes that contribute to ischemic events were identified. The relevance of this study lies in the need to recognize sleep disorders as modifiable clinical factors, contributing to preventive strategies and improving cardiovascular health. Final considerations: Sleep disorders are associated with an increased risk of acute myocardial infarction through mechanisms such as sympathetic activation, systemic inflammation, intermittent hypoxia, and endothelial dysfunction, with obstructive sleep apnea standing out as the main factor related to worse prognosis. Therefore, the assessment of sleep quality is essential in clinical practice for cardiovascular risk stratification, although methodological limitations of the studies may influence the findings.
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