Broken Sleep: A Warning Sign of Liver Disease

A recent study found a surprising link between liver disease, specifically metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), and disrupted sleep patterns. MASLD, driven by factors like obesity and metabolic syndrome, is a leading liver condition that affects millions worldwide. Researchers discovered that people with MASLD experience significantly fragmented sleep, characterized by frequent awakenings and prolonged periods of wakefulness during the night. Interestingly, traditional sleep hygiene education was not effective in improving these disturbances.

Sleep disruption in MASLD patients is concerning because it may exacerbate the condition’s complications, including an increased risk of diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and liver cancer. Given that patients with MASLD also tend to have elevated levels of triglycerides, glucose, and insulin, addressing sleep disturbances becomes crucial for managing their overall health. Read more on sleep patterns linked to healthy aging outcomes.

The study used 24/7 actigraphy, a method that tracks movements through a sensor, to observe sleep patterns objectively. This method revealed that MASLD patients were 55% more likely to wake up during the night and spend 113% more time awake after initially falling asleep compared to healthy individuals. These fragmented sleep patterns were found to be present in all stages of MASLD, including those with more severe liver damage (MASH with cirrhosis).

The researchers concluded that sleep disturbances may contribute to the progression of MASLD, although the exact relationship between liver disease and sleep remains unclear. The study’s lead author, Dr. Sofia Schaeffer, recommended future studies explore comprehensive interventions that combine sleep counseling, lifestyle changes, and targeted therapies to improve sleep and liver health. This study emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to managing liver disease that includes both addressing metabolic factors and improving sleep quality to reduce long-term complications.

Given the rising prevalence of MASLD and its associated risks, healthcare providers should be aware of the potential connection between disrupted sleep and liver disease to provide more effective, comprehensive care for their patients.

More information: Significant nocturnal wakefulness after sleep onset in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, Frontiers in Network Physiology (2024). DOI: 10.3389/fnetp.2024.1458665