A recent study conducted by researchers from the National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center in Japan revealed the potential health risks of using high pillows while sleeping, particularly in relation to the increased risk of stroke. The research focused on cases of spontaneous vertebral artery dissection (sVAD), which is a ruptured blood vessel in the neck leading to a stroke, emphasizing the impact of neck flexion when using high pillows.
The study compared the sleeping habits of individuals diagnosed with sVAD to those hospitalized for other causes of strokes or cerebral hemorrhages during the same period. It found that a higher percentage of sVAD patients used pillows that were 12 cm or higher compared to the non-sVAD patients. The research team noted that even pillows 15 cm or higher increased the likelihood of developing sVAD, highlighting the importance of maintaining a proper neck position during sleep.
The study also delved into the historical context of high-pillow usage in Japan, referencing the traditional practice of using high pillows among shoguns, samurais, and geishas to maintain specific hairstyles. The researchers mentioned that historical texts dating back to the 19th century hinted at an awareness of the potential connection between high-pillow usage and health issues, advocating for the moderation of pillow height based on both comfort and longevity. Dr. Tomotaka Tanaka, a neurosurgeon involved in the study, advised against using pillows exceeding 15 cm in height to prevent excessive neck flexion that could lead to health complications like sVAD.