Could Naps be Dangerous? Study

Just as that afternoon slump hits, many of his might enjoy a little nap to feel rejuvenated, refreshed and less grouchy during the rest of the day. Yet a recent study shows that if you're frequently catching some extra sleep before bedtime, it could be sign of a greater health issue.

Researchers at the Sleep Center at Mount Sinai Medical Center examined 16,473 participants from Britain, where there is no napping culture. The volunteers were monitored for a 13-year-period, during which time, close to 3,000 of the study participants died. Data was collected regarding the participants' napping habits as well as their overall physical health and cause of death.

The study authors discovered that those who napped less than one hour per day had a 14 percent increased risk of dying, while those who napped more than one hour per day were threefold at 32 percent. 

While researchers found that these increased death risks were often associated with certain lung conditions, they could not determine a cause and effect relationship between sleep and increased risk of mortality.

"There's a reason they need to nap, perhaps, which includes many of the major sleep diseases," said Dr. Steven Feinsilver, director of the Sleep Center at Mount Sinai Medical Center, via CBS Local. "The main reason to be sleepy is sleep apnea, and we know that sleep apnea is associated with an increased risk of cardiac disease, stroke, and death."

Though a nap here and there might not be bad for most, researchers stress the importance of getting the recommended amount of rest every night to prevent exhaustion during the day.

More information regarding the findings can be seen via the American Journal of Epidemiology.