Hi Anthony,
Yes stress, high BP, high cholesterol, lack of sleep can be fatal. High BP, high cholesterol and stress are primary risk factor for cardiovascular disease and stroke. So please make efforts to keep your BP and cholesterol under control. No alcohol, no smoking, no fried food. Plenty of fruits, vegetables, and exercise. You need to sleep for atleast 6 hrs. Cut down your stress levels by breathing exercises and meditation. Hope it helps!
hi - anthony Fatal Familial insomnia runs in families - so if none of your relatives have it, it is unlikely to be this. Sleep deprivation can lead to heart problems, and stress is a real factor. I would suggest that you see your doc and get something to help you sleep - you may find that some of your other problems (stress / depression/ anxiety/ chest pain and sometimes even high blood pressure) go away when you are getting enough sleep.
Other practical but boring suggestions - regular bedtime, no evening caffeine, exercise, or late meals, a warm milky drink, meditation before bed, get up at the same time every day, minimise light and noises, and keep the room at a comfortable heat.
I also read somewhere - that if you wake during the night you should get up and sit in a different room with low level lighting, and do nothing until you feel sleepy again, and return to bed. I have never managed this one - always get a book /tv/ internet - but this actually keeps me awake so i know its not good.