For many, the early morning hours are a time of peaceful rest, but for those with high cholesterol, these quiet moments can carry a hidden risk. Early morning heart attacks, often linked to elevated cholesterol levels, pose a serious risk that many may not be aware of. Understanding the connection between cholesterol and heart health is crucial to preventing these potentially life-threatening events. We spoke to our expert Dr Dibya Ranjan Behera, Consultant Cardiologist, Manipal Hospital, Bhubaneshwar, who shared key strategies to protect your heart and reduce the risk of these unexpected, life-threatening events.
“Heart attacks, commonly known as Coronary Artery Disease (CAD), are increasingly affecting younger individuals. The primary cause of a heart attack is the blockage of the coronary arteries, which is medically referred to as atherosclerosis. This condition results from plaque buildup in the arteries, leading to reduced blood flow to the heart muscles, ultimately causing a heart attack,” said Dr Behera.
How Does a Heart Attack Occur?
“The heart functions as a pump, circulating blood throughout the body to ensure all cells receive adequate oxygen. However, when a heart attack occurs, the heart's ability to pump blood is compromised,” said Dr Behera. This can lead to severe health consequences, and if not treated promptly, it can be fatal. The coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle, are critical in maintaining heart health. Any blockage in these arteries can reduce blood flow, triggering a heart attack.
Also Read: Heart Attacks and Blood Pressure: Expert Explains Blood Pressure Changes During a Heart Attack
Role of Cholesterol in Heart Attacks
One of the most significant contributors to heart attacks is high blood cholesterol levels, particularly Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL), often referred to as 'bad cholesterol.' LDL levels should ideally be below 100 mg/dL. “However, individuals with diabetes, a history of heart attacks, or other cardiovascular conditions should aim to keep their LDL levels under 70 mg/dL. Elevated LDL levels are primarily caused by poor dietary habits, such as consuming junk food, deep-fried foods, red meat, and foods high in saturated and trans fats,” added Dr Behera.
Impact of Diet on Cholesterol Levels
The food has a major role in controlling cholesterol levels. Foods rich in saturated fats, such as red and white meat, palm oil, and ghee, significantly contribute to increased LDL levels. When these foods are deep-fried, they produce trans fats, which are even more harmful and a leading cause of elevated cholesterol levels and heart attacks. To maintain healthy cholesterol levels, it is essential to limit the intake of these harmful fats.
Heart Attacks in the Early Morning Hours
“Studies have shown that the risk of heart attacks is higher during the early morning hours, particularly between 3 am and 6 am. This increased risk may be due to the heightened secretion of stress hormones and a protein called plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), which can cause blood to thicken,” highlighted Dr Behera.
Additionally, elevated blood pressure and blood sugar levels during these hours can further increase the likelihood of a heart attack, especially in individuals with hypertension or diabetes.
Also Read: Detecting Heart Attack: Expert Explains Chest Pain Evaluation And Role Of High-Sensitivity Troponin
Recognising and Responding to a Heart Attack
Early morning heart attacks are often more severe and are frequently mistaken for less serious conditions like acid reflux or anxiety. It is crucial to recognise the symptoms, which may include chest discomfort, sweating, and shortness of breath.
You should get medical help right away if you encounter these symptoms. The timely treatment of a heart attack is vital, and immediate action can save lives. Treatment may involve medications or procedures, such as coronary angiography and angioplasty to restore blood flow to the heart.
Preventing Heart Attacks
According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, you can reduce your risk of a heart attack by understanding your risk factors for coronary artery disease and taking proactive steps to minimise them. Even if you've already experienced a heart attack or have been told you're at high risk, you can still lower your chances, primarily by making some lifestyle changes that support better health.
Here are some preventive tips listed by Dr Behera:
- Adopting a healthy lifestyle is crucial, including getting at least six hours of quality sleep each night, eating a balanced diet rich in fibre, and avoiding junk and oily foods.
- Regular monitoring of blood pressure and cholesterol levels is essential, with targets of blood pressure below 120/70 mmHg and LDL cholesterol below 100 mg/dL.
- Avoiding smoking and engaging in regular physical activity, such as 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week, are vital steps in preventing heart attacks.
Bottomline
Dr Behera concluded, “Heart attacks are a serious health concern, but with proper lifestyle changes and early intervention, they can be prevented. Prioritising heart health through a balanced diet, regular exercise, and routine health check-ups can significantly reduce the risk of a heart attack and improve overall well-being.”
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your own professional if you are dealing with any health issues to avoid complications.]