New Delhi, October 26 (IANS). Why do heart attacks often occur at night or early in the morning? This question remains in the mind of many people. Often people think that heart attack is only the result of stress, but our body’s biological clock i.e. circadian rhythm also plays a big role in this.
Our body’s biological clock controls the work of organs according to day and night. Blood pressure and heart rate are slowest at night, especially between 2 and 5 a.m. If the heart is already weak then even a slight decrease in blood flow during this time can put pressure on the heart and the risk of heart attack increases.
Apart from this, the level of cortisol hormone increases in the body in the morning, due to which the blood becomes thick and platelets start sticking. This increases the risk of blood clot formation.
Some people snore during sleep and there is interruption in breathing, which is called sleep apnea. This can lead to lack of oxygen and sudden stress on the heart. Lying down immediately after eating heavy or fried food at night puts pressure on the heart due to acid reflux and gas. Additionally, the day’s stress and anxiety do not go away even at night, which can lead to high blood pressure and irregular heartbeat.
If you feel symptoms like heaviness in the chest at night, pain in the left arm or jaw, cold sweat, sudden shortness of breath or dizziness, do not ignore them and contact a doctor immediately.
Many measures have been suggested in Ayurveda to keep the heart safe. Drinking lukewarm water before sleeping at night improves digestion and reduces pressure on the heart. Drinking the decoction or powder of Arjuna bark boiled in milk daily strengthens the heart muscles and keeps the blood flow balanced. Eating garlic reduces cholesterol and keeps the arteries clean. Consumption of basil and honey increases oxygen in the blood and reduces heart fatigue.
Doing meditation or breathing exercises like Anulom-Vilom and Bhramari for 10 minutes at night keeps the heart rate stable and provides mental peace.
If you suddenly feel heaviness in the chest, take lukewarm water or celery and black salt. If you feel nervous, take deep breaths and keep the body straight.
Apart from this, to keep the heart healthy, take a light walk or yoga every day, stay away from smoking and alcohol, reduce salt, reduce stress and get enough sleep.
–IANS
PIM/ABM