A recent study conducted by Japanese researchers at the National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center has shed light on the potential health hazards of using multiple pillows, particularly those that are high in height. The researchers discovered a concerning link between sleeping on high pillows and an increased risk of stroke, especially due to the neck's bending position during slumber, which they termed as "shogun pillow syndrome." The study focused on cases of spontaneous vertebral artery dissection (sVAD), a condition where a blood vessel in the neck ruptures, leading to a stroke, particularly among individuals aged 15 to 45 years.
In their research, the team examined 53 individuals between the ages of 45 and 56 who were diagnosed with sVAD at the center within a specific timeframe, comparing their sleeping habits with 53 others hospitalized for strokes or cerebral hemorrhages from different causes. The findings indicated a higher prevalence of high pillow usage among sVAD patients, with a significant percentage using pillows 12 cm or higher and even 15 cm or higher, drawing a direct correlation between the height of pillows and the likelihood of developing sVAD. The study highlighted the risks associated with neck flexion caused by high pillows, especially when the position of the neck shifts during sleep, potentially damaging blood vessels.
The research team also delved into the historical context of using high pillows, tracing back to the traditional practice of maintaining elaborate hairstyles among shoguns, samurais, and geishas between the 17th and 19th centuries. They noted that even back then, there might have been an awareness of the association between high-pillow usage and strokes, as some historical essays hinted at the preference for lower pillows for longevity. As a precautionary measure, the team recommended refraining from using pillows exceeding 15 cm in height, emphasizing the importance of maintaining proper neck alignment during sleep to prevent potential health risks.