Morning, for most people, is the beginning of a new day, but for some, this moment can hide a health crisis. In my cardiology outpatient work, I have encountered many cases where what they have in common is the unusual symptoms they feel when they wake up in the morning. Many times, these morning malaises are mistaken for ordinary geriatric illness or fatigue, but in reality, they can be a precursor to heart disease, especially a heart attack.
I remember one time, a middle-aged male patient came to the outpatient clinic in a hurry, his face was pale, and cold sweat broke out on his forehead. He told me that he woke up and felt a sharp chest pain, accompanied by difficulty breathing. He thought that he would get better after a simple rest, but his symptoms did not relieve, but became more and more serious. The patient had a history of high blood pressure in the past, but he never thought he would be at risk of heart disease.
After a detailed diagnosis, we found out that he was experiencing an acute myocardial infarction, commonly known as a myocardial infarction. Luckily, he arrived at the hospital in time for emergency intervention, which ultimately saved his life. This incident reminds me once again that as doctors, we need to keep educating the public, especially about the early warning signs of a heart attack, and why this time of the morning is especially crucial.
Introduction to myocardial infarction and morning risk
What is a heart attack?
A myocardial infarction, also known as myocardial infarction, occurs when heart muscle cells die in parts of the heart due to prolonged lack of blood flow. This is usually caused by a blockage in the coronary arteries, the blood vessels that supply blood to the heart. Myocardial infarction is the most severe form of cardiovascular disease and requires immediate treatment.
Why is morning a high-risk time for heart attack?
Studies have shown that people are at particularly high risk of heart attack within a few hours of waking up in the morning. This is related to the body's biological clock and a series of physiological changes. In the morning, the body naturally increases its heart rate and blood pressure in preparation for activity, and the blood has higher levels of hormones such as adrenaline, which can combine to cause existing coronary artery plaques to rupture, form blood clots, and eventually cause a heart attack.
The role of the biological clock
The body's biological clock regulates the secretion of various hormones, including those that increase blood pressure and heart rate. In the morning, this natural physiological mechanism can place an additional burden on the heart, especially if there is already a pre-existing heart condition. Therefore, it is especially important to identify the risks during this time period and take preventive measures.
There are four warning signs of myocardial infarction when you wake up
1. Chest pain
If you feel pressure or pain in your chest when you wake up in the morning, especially if the pain is concentrated behind the breastbone or on the left side, this can be a significant warning sign of a heart attack. Chest pain in a myocardial infarction is usually long-lasting and may be accompanied by pain radiating to the left arm, shoulder, neck, or jaw. If you have such symptoms, it is important to call the emergency number immediately.
2. Difficulty breathing
If you wake up breathless or out of breath in the morning without doing any strenuous activity, it could be a sign that your heart is not pumping blood effectively. Cardiac insufficiency causes fluid to build up in the lungs, causing shortness of breath. This symptom should not be ignored, especially if it is a new or worsening condition.
3. Nausea or vomiting
While many people may not immediately associate nausea or vomiting in the morning with heart problems, it can indeed be a less obvious warning sign of a heart attack. Medical help should be sought immediately, especially if accompanied by other symptoms such as chest pain or difficulty breathing.
4. Abnormal sweating
If you still sweat profusely for no apparent reason, especially when the room temperature is right, it could be a warning of a heart attack. Sweating in heart disease is often cold sweat and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as chest pain or difficulty breathing.
First aid and precautions
First aid tips
When a heart attack occurs, a timely and correct response is crucial. Here are a few key first aid steps:
Call emergency services immediately: In any case of suspicion of a heart attack, the first step should be to call a local emergency number (such as 911 or local emergency services). Provide clear information, including the patient's specific location, symptoms, and known medical conditions.
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR): If the person is unconscious and is not breathing or only breathing abnormally, CPR is performed immediately. Compress the chest to a depth of at least 5 cm and at a frequency of at least 100 to 120 times per minute. If you are trained, you can perform mouth-to-mouth breathing, or if not, resuscitation with pure compressions.
Use an automated external defibrillator (AED): If the venue is equipped with an AED, use it immediately. The AED device will guide you through the steps with your voice.
Precautionary measures
Preventing a heart attack isn't just about making lifestyle changes, it's also about regular health checkups. These measures can significantly reduce the risk of myocardial infarction:
Monitor and control cardiovascular risk factors: Check your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar levels regularly. Managing these indicators can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle:
Eat a balanced diet: Eat plenty of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, and limit foods that are high in fat and sugar.
Regular exercise: At least 150 minutes a week of moderate-intensity exercise, such as brisk walking or cycling.
Smoking cessation and alcohol restriction: Tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption are both important risk factors for heart disease.
Mental health: Managing stress and avoiding chronic stress. Try meditation, yoga, or other relaxation techniques to reduce mental stress.
Regular medical check-ups: Work with your doctor to have regular heart health assessments, especially for people with a family history of heart disease.
By taking these steps, you can not only improve your ability to cope with a heart attack, but also significantly reduce your chances of heart attack. Maintaining these habits allows us to wake up with a healthier and more stable heartbeat every day.