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A heart attack, or myocardial infarction, is often associated with moments of intense stress or physical exertion. However, it can also occur under unexpected conditions, including during sleep. While less common, this scenario is not rare. Understanding the mechanisms behind nighttime heart attacks helps better assess the risks and adopt heart-healthy habits, even when you think you are at rest.
What Is a Myocardial Infarction?
Definition and Causes
A heart attack happens when a coronary artery, responsible for supplying the heart with blood, becomes suddenly blocked. This obstruction deprives the heart muscle of oxygen, leading to the destruction of cells in the affected area.
Risk Factors
The main causes include high blood pressure, smoking, high cholesterol, diabetes, chronic stress, and genetic predisposition. A sedentary lifestyle or an unbalanced diet also increases the risks.
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Why Can a Heart Attack Occur During Sleep?
Nocturnal Variations in Heart Rate
During sleep, the heart rate slows down, but certain phases, such as REM sleep, can trigger sudden increases in blood pressure or heart rate. These spikes may destabilize an atherosclerotic plaque in the coronary arteries.
Nighttime Adrenaline Surges
The body naturally releases hormones like adrenaline in the early morning hours to prepare for waking. In someone at risk, this hormonal release can be enough to trigger a heart attack.
Sleep Apnea as an Aggravating Factor
People suffering from sleep apnea frequently stop breathing during the night, causing drops in blood oxygen levels. This repeated stress on the heart greatly increases the risk of nighttime heart attacks.
What Are the Signs of a Heart Attack During Sleep?
Typical Symptoms Occurring at Night
Symptoms can include chest pain (sometimes felt as pressure), pain radiating to the left arm or jaw, excessive sweating, shortness of breath, or a feeling of tightness.
Sudden Awakening or Loss of Consciousness
Some people wake up abruptly with symptoms, while others may not wake up at all. In these cases, diagnosis is often delayed, making intervention more difficult.
Preventing the Risk of Nighttime Heart Attacks
Managing Risk Factors
Monitoring blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels, quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and engaging in regular physical activity are effective measures to reduce risk.
Treating Sleep Disorders
If you have sleep apnea or nighttime breathing disorders, medical treatment is essential. Therapies like positive airway pressure can significantly lower cardiovascular risk.
Adopting a Healthy Lifestyle
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Avoiding heavy meals in the evening, limiting alcohol, favoring calm evenings, and maintaining regular sleep schedules promote restorative sleep and reduce nighttime heart stress.
Yes, it is entirely possible to have a heart attack while sleeping, especially if several risk factors are present. Although it may seem paradoxical, sleep does not always provide enough protection for a vulnerable heart. That’s why it is crucial to stay vigilant, pay attention to your body’s signals, and adopt healthy habits to protect your heart day and night.
