Can scrolling through reels lead to hypertension and high blood pressure?
This quite common habit can lead to serious heart diseases
Why midnight doom-scrolling could harm our heart health
Short video platforms have really revolutionised how we consume content. With fun and eye-catching visuals and an endless stream of entertainment, it’s easy to lose track of time scrolling through these platforms. But as harmless as this may seem, there is a study that reveals a troubling link between long screen time, especially before bedtime, and hypertension in young and middle-aged adults. Here’s how this habit could have serious health implications and what can be done to reduce its effects.
This study published in 2025 examined that results of a total of 4318 young and middle-aged participants who underwent medical examination
What does science say?
Scrolling through reels can result in a cycle of mental stimulation and stress. The rapid-fire nature of these types of films puts the brain on high alert, which typically results in higher heart rate and adrenaline levels. This can activate the body’s stress response, which, if sustained, contributes to high blood pressure. Even one to two hours of screen usage before bed might greatly raise the risk of developing hypertension. According to a 2024 study, adolescents and young adults’ screen time has increased as smartphones have been more widely available over the last decade.
Does it cause sleep disruption?
Watching reels late at night primarily disturbs sleep patterns. Screens emit blue light, which suppresses melatonin production, making it difficult to go asleep. Poor sleep is a well-known risk factor for hypertension. Also, fewer sleep hours mean less recovery time for the cardiovascular system, which greatly increases the risk of high blood pressure.
Inactive behaviour and its role in hypertension
The time spent scrolling through reels will definitely replace some kind of activity in the day. Physical activity. This sedentary lifestyle is closely linked to obesity, which is a significant risk factor for high blood pressure. The risk increases further with unhealthy snacking that often accompanies late-night scrolling.
Can it make us distressed?
The content on the reels varies from hilarious to frightening. Exposure to negative or emotionally charged videos can increase cortisol levels, a stress hormone that directly affects blood pressure. This emotional rollercoaster, when repeated over time, can lead to chronic stress and hypertension.
Steps to healthier habits
- Limit your screen time: Use app timers to keep your reel usage to less than an hour each day.
- A digital detox regime: Avoid computer time for at least an hour before bedtime and replace it with peaceful activities such as reading or meditation.
- Physical activity: Add regular exercise into your routine to combat the effects of sedentary behaviour.
- Be mindful of the stuff you consume and avoid emotionally exhausting films.
- Create a nightly regimen that encourages restful sleep, such as dimming the lights and keeping electronic gadgets out of the bedroom.
