Study: Less than 6 hours of sleep a night increases risk of having a stroke

CINCINNATI - A lack of sleep can cause all sorts of health problems, and now doctors say not enough shut-eye will increase your chances of suffering from a stroke.

Researchers found that adults who didn't sleep longer than six hours a night on average were four times more likely to have a stroke. These findings are the first to link insufficient sleep to stroke. They're also the first to apply to adults who keep off the extra pounds and have no other risk factors for stroke.

It's estimated that working adults get six hours or less of sleep a night. The recommended amount is seven to nine.

Doctors say if you think you're having a stroke it's important to get to the hospital as soon as possible. Symptoms can include facial, arm and leg weakness or speech problems.